Objective. To evaluate and describe normal fetal anatomy with surface-rendered 3-dimensional (3D) ultrasound imaging and to try to assess the feasibility and content of a routine 3D examination. Additionally, to determine what standards should be established for routine 3D examination protocols and guidelines for the current technology.Methods. One hundred ten obstetric patients underwent ultrasound examinations using conventional ultrasound equipment adapted for 3D surface imaging. After 84 women were examined, criteria were established for a standard initial 3D screening examination, which was performed on the remaining 26 women.Results. Gestational age ranged from 15 to 33 weeks. Mean examination time was 40 minutes with a range of 30 to 50 minutes. Between 16% and 79% of the targeted structures were successfully visualized per patient. Mean identification was 49%. Conclusion. Three-dimensional ultrasound may become a useful diagnostic tool for routine fetal evaluation in the future. At this time, routine 3D ultrasound examinations would be prohibitive due to lengthy additional examination time and a low percentage of consistent structures visualized.
