Three‐dimensional ultrasound of fetal surface features

Abstract

This paper presents preliminary results of techniques which permit acquisition and display of three‐dimensional fetal anatomy using ultrasound image data collected as two‐dimensional planar images with commercially available equipment. A precision translational stage was used which permitted the transducer position and orientation in the volume to be accurately determined. Ultrasound video image data were digitized into a personal computer together with transducer position and orientation information. All image and position data were subsequently transferred to a graphics workstation. Gray‐scale ultrasound data were three‐dimensionally filtered, thresholded and analyzed using maximum intensity, variable transparency and surface rendering techniques to evaluate the fetal surface. Images of arbitrary orientation were displayed interactively on a graphics workstation. Our results demonstrate the potential of three‐dimensional ultrasound as a technique for visualization of fetal surfaces, extremities and internal anatomy. Three‐dimensional ultrasound offers potential advantages over existing diagnostic methods since it is non‐invasive and offers interactive review and viewing optimization after fetal scanning. Copyright © 1992 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology Copyright © 1992 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology