Use of three-dimensional ultrasonography for the study of normal and pathologic morphology of the human embryo and fetus: preliminary report.

Our objective was to determine whether three-dimensional ultrasonography offers advantages over two-dimensional sonography for the evaluation of normal and pathologic morphology of human embryos and fetuses at various stages of pregnancy. Our studies suggest that small fetal and embryonic malformations are better defined with 3D sonography. Our experience indicates that 3D sonography allows more detailed visualization of fetal internal structures. We believe that with technical improvements 3D sonography will permit a more complete evaluation of fetuses earlier in gestation than is possible with current 2D sonographic instruments.