Outcomes of ultrasound diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. Dependence on observer experience.

BACKGROUND

The effect of examiner experience on the detection of ultrasound findings in ectopic pregnancy was assessed in a retrospective study.

METHODS

Records and examinations of 267 consecutive patients with surgically proven ectopic pregnancy were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups: (1) those who were examined by faculty during the day (182 examinations) and (2) those who were examined by resident physicians at night (85 examinations).

RESULTS

A statistical difference was found in the incidence of adnexal mass, free fluid, sac within the mass, and corpus luteum cyst.

CONCLUSION

Examiner experience has a strong effect on the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound examination. Adnexal abnormalities may be difficult to identify because of confusion with loops of bowel or other pelvic structures. Faculty follow-up and review are important in patient management.