Inter- and intra-observer variability in Sonographic measurements of the cross-sectional diameters and area of the umbilical cord and its vessels during pregnancy

Cristiane Barbieri,Jose V Costa,Jose G Cecatti,Emilio F Marussi,Carla E Souza

doi:10.1186/1742-4755-5-5

Cristiane Barbieri, Jose V Costa + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/1742-4755-5-5

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Journal: Reproductive Health	Publication Date: Oct 15, 2008
Citations: 33	License type: cc-by

Affiliation: Universidade Estadual de Campinas

Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose of the study was to evaluate inter- and intra-observer variability in sonographic measurements of the cross-sectional area of the umbilical cord and the diameters of its vessels in low-risk pregnancies of 12 to 40 weeks of gestation.MethodsA prospective cross sectional study was performed in 221 pregnant women at different gestational ages. Measurements were carried out also by a second observer to evaluate inter-observer variability and repeated once again by the first observer to assess intra-observer variability. The linear correlation between the measurements (Spearman's coefficient of correlation) and their reliability through the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), the Cronbach's alpha coefficient and the limits of agreement proposed by Bland and Altman were evaluated.ResultsThe results showed that inter-observer and intra-observer variability did not show any significant difference between examiners. A good linear correlation between the measurements and reliability was obtained, with values of R, ICC and Cronbach's alpha all above the standard limits.ConclusionIt is possible to conclude that inter- and intra-observer variability in the measurements of the umbilical cord and its vessels was small; their reliability and agreement were good.

Highlights

The purpose of the study was to evaluate inter- and intra-observer variability in sonographic measurements of the cross-sectional area of the umbilical cord and the diameters of its vessels in low-risk pregnancies of 12 to 40 weeks of gestation
The objective of this study was to evaluate inter- and intra-observer variability in sonographic measurements of the diameter of the umbilical artery, the umbilical vein, the umbilical cord and the cross-sectional area of the umbilical cord. This was a prospective cross sectional study to compare the variability in sonographic measurements of the umbilical cord and its vessels when carried out by the same evaluator or by different evaluators
Inclusion criteria comprised: single gestation, live fetus, gestational age previously established by the date of last menstrual period (LMP) if reliable or ultrasonography carried out in the first trimester, unruptured membranes, Patients were submitted to routine ultrasonography in the semi-seated position

Summary

Introduction

The purpose of the study was to evaluate inter- and intra-observer variability in sonographic measurements of the cross-sectional area of the umbilical cord and the diameters of its vessels in low-risk pregnancies of 12 to 40 weeks of gestation. Using an ultrasound scanner with high image resolution and amplification that permits adequate vision of the vessels and their contours, the umbilical cord is identified even in the initial stages of pregnancy, permitting early detection of any changes in its thickness [11]. This could theoretically, become another useful tool for the prognostic selection of cases in which associated adverse effects are more likely to develop, in the case of high risk pregnancies [12]

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