title: [3D and 4D ultrasonography in obstetrics].
abstract: The review article analyses the practical application of 3D/4D ultrasound in modern obstetrics. The basic terms applied with this method are introduced including their equivalents in Bulgarian. The main volume rendering modes are described. The advantages of 3D/4D ultrasound in obstetrics are outlined including: 1) improved understanding of normal fetal anatomy and fetal anomalies by the parents; 2) improved maternal-fetal bonding; 3) enhanced diagnosis of fetal anomalies; 4) precise identification of the nature, size and location of certain fetal defects; 5) precise volume measurement of organs with irregular shape; 6) retrospective analysis, data exchange and education. Some specific advantages of 3D/4D sonography are listed regarding its application in the first trimester, for the diagnosis of fetal anomalies and for fetal growth assessment. Some myths about 3D/4D ultrasound popular among patients and medical professionals are discussed. The ethical aspects of 3D/4D ultrasound in obstetrics as well as the future perspectives of the method are also outlined.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Dimitrova
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Markov
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Dimitrov
mesh_terms: D002031:Bulgaria; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000196:embryology; D005260:Female; D047109:Fetal Development; D006801:Humans; D009774:Obstetrics / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011261:Pregnancy Trimester, First; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal / Q000145:classification / Q000379:methods*