Virtual Embryoscopy

The first 10 weeks of pregnancy are of great importance for the developing embryo: abnormal growth and / or development during these weeks are likely to have an impact on foetal growth in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy and subsequent health of the newborn. It is therefore of major importance to define normal and abnormal embryonic growth and development. Solid comprehension of human embryogenesis will eventually allow for early detection of any abnormalities, for instance in the case of recurrent miscarriages or pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities. Human embryology has been studied extensively during the last centuries. However, it is quite remarkable that the classical description of normal human embryonic growth and development is generally based on information of abnormal pregnancies like miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies

Embryonic staging using a 3D virtual reality system

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to demonstrate that Carnegie Stages could be assigned to embryos visualized with a 3D virtual reality system. METHODS: We analyse

Innovative three-dimensional imaging: opportunities for virtual embryoscopy

Three-dimensional images of patients are currently viewed and assessed using two-dimensional media and techniques. These two-dimensional techniques do not offer depth perception, while this is required for optimal interpretation of three-dimensional and four-dimensional ultrasound, MRI and CT images. The I-Space virtual reality system offers depth perception and allows the user to take length and volume measurements. I-Space offers a spectacular new way of studying embryonic and foetal growth and development in vivo. This may contribute to prenatal diagnostics being brought forward from the second and third trimesters to the first trimester of pregnancy

Innovative virtual reality measurements for embryonic growth and development

Background Innovative imaging techniques, using up-to-date ultrasonic equipment, necessitate specific biometry. The aim of our study was to test the possibility of detailed human embryonic biometry using a virtual reality (VR) technique. Methods In a longitudinal study, three-dimensional (3D) measurements were performed from 6 to 14 weeks gestational age in 32 pregnancies (n = 16 spontaneous conception, n = 16 IVF/ICSI). A total of 125 3D volumes were analysed in the I-Space VR system, which allows binocular depth perception, providing a realistic 3D illusion. Crown-rump length (CRL), biparietal diameter (BPD), occipito-frontal diameter (OFD), head circumference (HC) and abdominal circumference (AC) were measured as well as arm length, shoulder width, elbow width, hip width and knee width. Result SCRL, BPD, OFD and HC could be measured in more than 96 of patients, and AC in 78. Shoulder width, elbow width, hip width and knee width could be measured in more than 95 of cases, and arm length in 82 of cases. Growth curves were constructed for all variables. Ear and foot measurements were only possible beyond 9 weeks gestation. Conclusions This study provides a detailed, longitudinal description of normal human embryonic growth, facilitated by a VR system. Growth curves were created for embryonic biometry of the CRL, BPD, HC and AC early in pregnancy and also of several 'new' biometric measurements. Applying virtual embryoscopy will enable us to diagnose growth and/or developmental delay earlier and more accurately. This is especially important for pregnancies at risk of severe complications, such as recurrent late miscarriage and early growth restriction