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Interobserver and intraobserver variation in determining intrarenal parameters by Doppler sonography
R H Gottlieb1, E L Snitzer, D F Hartley
1Department of Radiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY 14642-8648, USA.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Interobserver variability in assessing renal artery stenosis using Doppler waveform parameters was significant for systolic acceleration time (SAT), but not for resistive index. This highlights potential inconsistencies in clinical evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Nephrology
- Vascular Ultrasound
Background:
- Renal artery stenosis diagnosis relies on Doppler ultrasound.
- Accurate assessment of Doppler waveforms is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify inter- and intraobserver variability in assessing intrarenal Doppler waveform parameters.
- To evaluate the reliability of systolic acceleration time (SAT) and resistive index measurements.
Main Methods:
- Optimized Doppler waveforms from interlobar arteries of healthy volunteers were recorded.
- Six observers evaluated digitized waveforms, calculating SAT and resistive index.
- Observers also categorized waveform shapes.
Main Results:
- Significant interobserver variation was found in SAT measurements (p < .01).
- Variability in SAT was linked to waveform shape perception and systolic start point selection.
- No significant inter- or intraobserver variation was observed for resistive index measurements.
Conclusions:
- Considerable variability exists among and within laboratories when using SAT for renal artery stenosis evaluation.
- The resistive index appears to be a more reliable Doppler parameter than SAT.