Abstract
We investigated the utility and problems with three-dimensional (3D) intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS), compared with usual IDUS for four cases of mucin producing tumor of the pancreas. A 3D-IDUS imaging system with ultrasonic probes was employed by transpapillary approach. Three of the tumors were located in the head region of the pancreas and the remaining one case in the head to tail region. In all cases, assessment of tumor extension, evaluation of mural nodules and the volume measurement of cystic lesions could be easily performed. The results confirmed that the diagnostic ability of 3D-IOUS is superior to that of usual IDUS, but suggested that suitable subjects may be limited. Future improvement in the instrumentation is, however, to be anticipated which will allow more widespread application.
