OBJECTIVE:

3D/4D ultrasound has had a significant influence on prenatal diagnostics. Although the technique is often identified with surface imaging, it enables one to obtain by means of processing of a volume data set a large amount of additional information. Furthermore, this opens up new possibilities in the diagnostics of internal organs. One method offered in 3D/4D ultrasound is processing in minimum mode. In this mode fluid-filled organs are displayed in black.

Mat&METHODS:

This is a prospective observational study during the period 1 Jan 2005 – 31 aug 2007. Using a 3D-static volume data set of the thorax and the abdomen in anormal screening population in the second trimester: Additionally we analyzed fetuses with various malformations in combination with fluid filled organs.

RESULTS:

The use of minimum mode in the 22th gw is easy, especially when the fetus is in a dorsoposterior position. We were able to demonstrate the typical signs in fetuses with various malformations (lung, diaphragmatichernia, kidney, bladder, neck, heart). Because of using the volume ultrasound the method allows us often a much better spatial visualization of the organs.

DISCUSSION:

Minimum mode is an additional tool in 3D/4D ultrasound, enabling the visualization of fluid-filled organs in a volume data set. This makes it possible to obtain information about the spatial relationship of the organs.

Keywords: minimum mode, prenatal diagnosis, fluid filled organs, volume ultrasound, 3D/4D - Ultrasound