Ultrasound Interactive Case Study: 3D Multiplanar Endometrium

Case presentation by: Lee Gleason, R.T., R.D.M.S., March, 1998
Email: lgleason@medison.com

The images were obtained on a Medison Voluson 530D system using a 3D Endovaginal Volume transducer. After the probe is inserted into the patient and the desired anatomy is brought into view on screen, the user will simply push one button on the system and the entire pelvis can be swept in a matter of seconds!!!! This is amazing, considering that all the pelvic anatomy can be viewed on the system in under 6 seconds. After the sweep is made, the images appear on-screen in the form that we sent to you. The sonographer/sonologist then can separately manipulate each image by choosing the desired slice (much like MRI). Each image you see represents a collection of slices in one plane.

The image on the top left is the transverse view of the uterus; top right is a longitudinal section and the bottom left is the horizontal plane (coronal). The "wire" diagram in the bottom right corner is an orientation help box that orients the user as he is moving through each plane. The user is able to move through the entire uterus in any direction by simply turning a dial, even after the patient has left the department. No longer do we have to worry about getting "one more view." Now the sonographer/sonologist has all the information he needs right at his fingertips.

The images we sent you are of a 32 year old healthy female who was within approximately 9 days of starting the menstruation. The uterus and endometrium in this patient was found to be within normal limits. When looking at the image in the bottom left corner (the horizontal plane), the anatomy is displayed in a view never before obtained by ultrasound. This adds an enormous amount of diagnostic information, particularly when used in conjunction with sonohysterography. Tumors that have invaded the endometrium can now be visualized using ultrasound without having to defer to more expensive and/or invasive procedures.

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