The accuracy of ultrasound evaluation of amniotic fluid volume in singleton pregnancies: the effect of operator experience and ultrasound interpretative technique

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of operator experience and ultrasound interpretation technique on the accuracy of ultrasound estimates of amniotic fluid volume. Ultrasound evaluation was carried out by an obstetric resident, a nurse sonographer, a maternal-fetal medicine fellow, and a maternal-fetal medicine staff member to subjectively estimate (visual interpretation without sonographic measurements) amniotic fluid volume in 63 pregnancies. Amniotic fluid volume was also evaluated using ultrasound measurements based on the largest vertical pocket technique, the amniotic fluid index, and the two-diameter pocket method. The accuracy of these ultrasound estimates was assessed by comparing the ultrasound results to actual amniotic fluid volume as determined by a dye-dilution technique. For analysis, amniotic fluid volumes were classified as oligohydramnios, normal, or hydramnios using established volumetric criteria for singleton pregnancies. Subjective estimates ranged from 65% to 70% correct and did not differ by operator experience except for the more accurate diagnosis of hydramnios by the maternal-fetal medicine staff. The three sonographic measurements were similar in overall accuracy (59-67%). The two-diameter pocket method was, however, significantly more accurate in identifying oligohydramnios. It appears that neither operator experience nor sonographic technique greatly affects the accuracy of ultrasound estimates of amniotic fluid volume.