Intra- and Inter-Observer Variability of Quantitative Parameters Used in Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound of Kidneys of Healthy Cats

Abstract

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a non-invasive imaging technique which allows qualitative and quantitative assessment of tissue perfusion. Although CEUS offers numerous advantages, a major challenge remains the variability in tissue perfusion quantification. This study aimed to assess intra- and inter-observer variability for quantification of renal perfusion. Two observers with different levels of expertise performed a quantitative analysis of 36 renal CEUS studies, twice. The CEUS data were collected from 12 healthy cats at 3 different time points with a 7-day interval. The inter- and intra-observer agreement was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient. Within and between observers, a good agreement was demonstrated for intensity-related parameters in the cortex, medulla, and interlobular artery. For some parameters, ICCinter was considerably lower than ICCintra, mostly when the ROI encompassed the entire kidney or medulla. With the exception of time to peak (TTP) and mean transit time (mTTI), time-related and slope-related parameters showed poor agreement among observers. In conclusion, it may be advised against having the quantitative assessment of renal perfusion performed by different observers, especially if their experience levels differ. The cortical mTTI seemed to be the most appropriate parameter as it showed a favorable inter-observer agreement and inter-period agreement.