The role of three-dimensional ultrasonographic images in ovarian measurement

Objective: To determine whether three-dimensional ultrasonography can increase the ability to evaluate the ovary and follicles, especially in women with polycystic ovary disease (PCOD). Design: Prospective clinical study. Setting: University hospital endocrine and infertility center. Patient(s): Sixty-six patients undergoing routine gynecologic evaluation were divided into two groups: the normal control group consisted of 22 patients, and there were 44 patients with PCOD. Intervention(s): Three-dimensional ultrasonography was performed to store and document whole volumes of the ovaries for evaluation. Main Outcome Measure(s): Three perpendicular planes of bilateral ovaries are rotatable to obtain the largest dimensions. The three-dimensional volume was measured using the trapezoid formula. Result(s): The ovaries of the patients with PCOD were larger in size, area, and volume than those of normal controls. Conclusion(s): Stroma and volume determinations can be obtained more accurately by three-dimensional images than by traditional ultrasonography. Three-dimensional ultrasonography not only facilitates noninvasive evaluation and volume calculation but also completes the examination in a short time without increasing patient discomfort.