Interobserver reliability between pediatric radiologists and residents in ultrasound evaluation of intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants

BACKGROUND: Germinal matrix intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) may contribute to significant morbidity and mortality in premature infants. Timely identification and grading of IVH affect decision-making and clinical outcomes. There is possibility of misinterpretation of the ultrasound appearances, and the interobserver variability has not been investigated between radiology resident and board-certified radiologist. AIM: To assess interobserver reliability between senior radiology residents performing bedside cranial ultrasound during on-call hours and pediatric radiologists. METHODS: From June 2018 to June 2020, neonatal cranial ultrasound examinations were performed in neonatal intensive care unit. Ultrasound findings were recorded by the residents performing the ultrasound and the pediatric attending radiologists. RESULTS: In total, 200 neonates were included in the study, with a mean gestational age of 30.9 wk. Interobserver agreement for higher grade (Grade III & IV) IVH was excellent. There was substantial agreement for lower grade (Grade I & II) IVH. CONCLUSION: There is strong agreement between radiology residents and pediatric radiologists, which is higher for high grade IVHs.