A systematic technique using 3-dimensional ultrasound provides a simple and reproducible mode to evaluate the corpus callosum.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate a rapid 3-dimensional ultrasound-assisted technique for evaluation of the corpus callosum as an integral part of the anatomic survey. Transabdominal 3-dimensioal gray scale and power Doppler volumes of the fetal brain were acquired in 102 consecutive healthy fetuses at 20-23 postmenstrual weeks. Offline analysis was performed by 2 of the authors using a systematic approach of "volume manipulation." Diagnostic-quality visualization of the corpus callosum and the pericallosal arteries on the median plane was recorded by the 2 examiners independently. The median plane was easily obtained in all cases. Diagnostic-quality images of the corpus callosum were recorded in 93.1% and 99.0% and of the pericallosal arteries in 94.4% and 95.5% of the cases, by the 2 examiners, respectively. Three-dimensional ultrasound enables a rapid and easy evaluation of the corpus callosum that may facilitate its inclusion as an integral part of the routine anatomic survey.