Does color Doppler improve the assessment of amniotic fluid index

The aim of this study was to assess whether the identification of umbilical could loops by means of color Doppler may enhance the ability to measure true amniotic pockets. Thirty parturients in the third trimester of an uncomplicated pregnancy, prospectively underwent two evaluations of amniotic fluid index (AFI) 5 min apart, by two different observers on two different screens of the same ultrasound machines (Ultramark 9 HDI ATL, Bothell, WA). Both observers were blinded to the other observers' results. By the end of the study the results were compared. There was a significant difference of the mean amniotic fluid index between the two observers. The mean amniotic fluid index was significantly lower (p < 0.01) once the color Doppler was used (13.17 ± 3.73 by the gray scale ultrasound and 10.4 ± 3.18 by the color Doppler). It has been concluded that Color Doppler may enhance the ability to measure true amniotic fluid index. Although this difference may not be important in cases of normal amniotic fluid volume; In borderline cases of oligo or polyhydramnios this difference may be critical.