Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
12:17
The 4-vessel Sampling Approach to Integrative Studies of Human Placental Physiology In Vivo
Published on: August 2, 2017
Three-dimensional Doppler evaluation of single spherical samples from the placenta: intra- and interobserver
W P Martins1, J C Lima, A W Welsh
1Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo (FMRP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. wpmartins@gmail.com
Summary
Assessing placental vascularization using three-dimensional power Doppler (3D-PD) indices shows poor to moderate reliability between observers. The clinical usefulness of these 3D-PD measurements is likely limited due to inconsistent results.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Medical Imaging
- Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Three-dimensional power Doppler (3D-PD) ultrasound is a tool for assessing placental vascularity.
- Evaluating the reliability of 3D-PD indices is crucial for their clinical application in pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the intra- and interobserver reliability of placental three-dimensional power Doppler (3D-PD) indices derived from single spherical samples.
- To determine the influence of sampling methods and placental location on reliability.
Main Methods:
- Two observers independently assessed 3D-PD indices (VI, FI, VFI) from singleton pregnancies (24-40 weeks' gestation) using four spherical sampling techniques.
- Intra- and interobserver reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).
- Analyses were conducted on overall data and stratified by placental location (anterior, posterior, fundal, lateral).
Main Results:
- All three placental 3D-PD indices demonstrated weak to moderate reliability (ICC < 0.66 intraobserver, ICC < 0.48 interobserver).
- Directed spherical samples from basal to chorionic plate yielded the highest ICC values.
- Lower reliability (ICCs) was observed for lateral and fundal placentae compared to anterior and posterior locations.
Conclusions:
- The intra- and interobserver reliability of placental 3D-PD indices using single spherical samples is poor to moderate.
- The clinical utility of these 3D-PD indices in assessing placental vascularization in pregnancies over 24 weeks' gestation is likely restricted.
