Analysis of interinstitutional observer agreement in interpretation of dobutamine stress echocardiograms

Abstract

Objectives. This study sought to determine the degree of interinstitutional agreement in the interpretation of dobutamine stress echocardiograms. Background. Dobutamine stress echocardiography involves subjective interpretation. Consistent methods for acquisition and interpretation are of critical importance for obtaining high inter-observer agreement and for facilitating communication of test results. Methods. Five experienced centers were each asked to submit 30 dobutamine stress echocardiograms (dobutamine up to 40 μg/kg body weight per min and atropine up to 1 mg) obtained in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Thus, a total of 150 dobutamine stress echocardiograms were interpreted..