Foreword

Despite the fact that the beginning of 3-dimensional ultrasound was anything but easy, the past 26 years have shown that 3-dimensional/4-dimensional ultrasonography (3D/4D US) has experienced a tremendous development. In particular 3D/4D US has found widespread acceptance around the world since we organized the First World Congress for 3D Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology held in Mainz, Germany, in 1997. In the meantime 3D/4D ultra-sound has evolved into a powerful technique that can be integrated in every routine ultra-sound examination. In contrast to conventional 2-dimensional (2D) US that only allows imaging of single planes, 3D/4D US offers several render modes, image displays and storage capabilities that do not exist in 2D imaging. The most recent 3D/4D ultrasound technology facilitates 3D/4D ultrasound examinations even for the less experienced operator. There is no doubt that 3D/4D scanning requires a learning curve. However, once the principles and benefits of 3D/4D ultrasound are apprehended, the examiner has the opportunity to identify precisely normal and abnormal fetal or gynecological structures in the most appropriate imaging mode. It seemed evident therefore that given the many advances that had occurred in the last few years there was a need for a new 3D/4D textbook.

This textbook is written by 48 experts in the field and is divided in three parts: technology, obstetrics and gynecology. The different chapters are illustrated with high quality state-of-the-art images and are referenced with the latest papers.

The editors succeeded to provide an excellent text book that gives a very good overview on the potential benefits of 3D/4D ultrasound in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. This book should be an important source for all private offices and ultrasound laboratories.