This white paper presents a standardized methodology for fetal ultrasound evaluation of the umbilical-porto-ductal venous system (UPDVS) using Samsung’s 3D volumetric imaging technologies. The document details the normal anatomy and physiology of the fetal hepatic venous system, including the afferent system (umbilical vein, portal sinus, portal branches) and efferent system (ductus venosus, inferior vena cava, hepatic veins).
The authors introduce a systematic three-level assessment approach using RealisticVue™ and CrystalVue™ rendering combined with bidirectional color Doppler (S-Flow™). The technique involves volume acquisition from a transverse upper abdominal plane, followed by multiplanar reconstruction and sequential evaluation across three axial levels: inferior (visceral situs), middle (key hepatic venous components), and superior (hepatic veins convergence).
The methodology addresses current limitations in prenatal diagnosis of fetal intrahepatic venous anomalies by providing a reproducible framework for sonographers. Volume acquisition utilizes Samsung V8 ultrasound system with CV1-8A transducers, employing high-quality settings and specific sweep angles to minimize motion artifacts. Post-acquisition analysis involves progressive cranial displacement to evaluate vessel presence, trajectory, caliber, and flow direction.
The paper emphasizes the clinical value of this standardized fetal ultrasound approach for identifying anatomical variants and supporting anomaly classification. The technique serves multiple purposes: training tool for sonographers, diagnostic aid for complex cases, and foundation for remote consultation through volume storage in .UZD format. The authors conclude that integrating advanced 3D rendering technologies significantly enhances both anatomical and functional interpretation of the fetal venous system, contributing to improved prenatal assessment and diagnostic standardization in fetal medicine.
