Three-dimensional sonography for assessment of morphology and vascularization of the fetus and placenta.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the potential of three-dimensional power Doppler sonography in morphologic and functional assessment of the fetus and placenta.


METHODS
Review of the recent literature on three-dimensional sonography in early pregnancy and in the second and third trimester.


RESULTS
Three-dimensional sonography plays an important role in obstetrics predominantly for assessing fetal anatomy. Multiplanar images and rotation of the object allow systematic review of anatomic structures, such as limb buds, cerebral cavities, cord insertion, stomach, and bladder. Using this modality, volumes of the gestational sac, yolk sac, and fetal organs can be obtained easily. Three-dimensional power Doppler sonography has the potential to study the intervillous and placental circulation and evaluate the development of the embryonic and fetal cardiovascular system.


CONCLUSIONS
Three-dimensional ultrasound imaging complements pathologic and histologic evaluation of the developing embryo, giving rise to the new term "three-dimensional sonoembryology." It is evident that three-dimensional ultrasonography improves the visualization of the normal and abnormal fetal anatomy giving a realistic impression of the extent of the defects. These data are useful not only for obstetricians but also for pediatricians and pediatric surgeons.
Kurjak
A
A
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School University of Zagreb, Sveti Duh Hospital, Croatia.
Kupesic
S
S
Kos
M
M
D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005333:Fetus; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D010920:Placenta / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D021041:Placental Circulation; D011247:Pregnancy; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal / Q000379:methods*