Transvaginal three-dimensional ultrasound: accuracy of follicular volume measurements.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the accuracy of three-dimensional (3-D) ultrasound (US) follicular volume measurements.


METHODS
Prospective clinical study.


METHODS
A tertiary referral center for assisted reproduction.


METHODS
Twenty-five patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for IVF-ET using the long protocol of GnRH agonist.


METHODS
Transvaginal two-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D ovarian scan performed immediately before US-directed follicle aspiration.


METHODS
The volume of follicular fluid aspirated was compared with the corresponding volume of the follicle measured by 3-D US and with the conventional 2-D US volume measurement calculated using the formula pi/6 (D1 x D2 x D3). Limits of agreement and 95% confidence intervals were calculated and systematic bias between the methods was analyzed.


RESULTS
The limits of agreement between the volume of follicular aspirate and follicular volume determined by US were +0.96 to -0.43 mL for 3-D measurements and +3.47 to -2.42 mL for 2-D measurements.


CONCLUSIONS
The true volume of ovarian follicles, within the clinically useful range for IVF-ET cycles, is measured more accurately by a 3-D US system than by 2-D US techniques.
Kyei-Mensah
A
A
London Women's Clinic, United Kingdom.
Zaidi
J
J
Pittrof
R
R
Shaker
A
A
Campbell
S
S
Tan
S L
SL
D005260:Female; D015571:Follicular Fluid / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014621:Vagina