Which scan orientation is best for showing the lateral extent of a lesion?

The transverse scan orientation is the preferred method for visualizing the lateral extent of a lesion. This orientation provides a cross-sectional view of the eye and surrounding structures, allowing for a clearer assessment of the width and boundaries of a lesion. By viewing the lesion in this manner, the sonographer can measure how far the lesion extends in a lateral direction, making it easier to evaluate its size and impact on neighboring tissue.

In contrast, other orientations like longitudinal primarily show depth rather than width, which is not as effective for assessing lateral extent. Similarly, while coronal scans can provide valuable information about the anterior-posterior structure of the eye, they do not provide the lateral perspective needed for this specific evaluation. Oblique scans can offer a unique view, but they are typically not standardized for measuring lesions in the same way that transverse scans are. Thus, the transverse orientation is essential for effectively assessing the lateral dimensions of a lesion in ophthalmic ultrasound.