Published online Dec 28, 2015. doi: 10.4329/wjr.v7.i12.484
Peer-review started: July 14, 2015
First decision: August 25, 2015
Revised: October 10, 2015
Accepted: November 3, 2015
Article in press: November 4, 2015
Published online: December 28, 2015
Processing time: 172 Days and 6.5 Hours
Advent in three-dimensional (3D) imaging technology has seen 3D ultrasound establish itself as a useful adjunct complementary to traditional two-dimensional imaging of the female pelvis. This advantage largely arises from its ability to reconstruct the coronal plane of the uterus, which allows further delineation of many gynecological disorders. 3D imaging of the uterus is now the preferred imaging modality for assessing congenital uterine anomalies and intrauterine device localization. Newer indications include the diagnosis of adenomyosis. It can also add invaluable information to delineate other endometrial and myometrial pathology such as fibroids and endometrial polyps.
Core tip: Three-dimensional ultrasound imaging of the female pelvis is a useful adjunct to conventional two-dimensional imaging. By acquiring a set volume which is stored, volumetric acquisitions allow the offline review, manipulation and analysis of saved images to obtain the maximum information from a study. Recent literature has suggested this imaging approach is rapidly realizing widespread use in the assessment of a variety of gynecological disorders including uterine anomalies, intrauterine device localization, endometrial disorders and fibroids. Recent advances have also suggested it may be useful in diagnosing disorders of the endometrial-myometrial interface, such as adenomyosis.