3D duplex scan for peripheral vascular applications: major progress or gimmick?

Abstract

ISBN 13: 978-88-7711-663-5The use of specific 3 dimensional (3D) ultrasound equipment now enables to (i) explore a volume in real time and navigate inside using a virtual plane; (ii) perform 3D reconstruction and visualization of structures of interest in off-line post-processing. This technique is based on the same concept as the other modes of imaging (CT, MR) and thus allows: diagnostic review at any time, better reproducibility of measurements, volume measurements, less operator-dependent examinations. 3D ultrasonography has not yet been widely used in vascular pathology while it should be of major interest in two main applications: (a) abdominal aortic aneurysms, for which angio-CT demonstrated that volume follow-up is superior to diameter measurement, and (b) carotid plaque, with evaluation and monitoring of plaque volume, morphology, and surface (ulcerating lesions)