Amniotic Fluid Assessment: MVP vs AFI, Borderline Findings, and Pitfalls
0% Complete
Course Overview
Amniotic fluid assessment is one of the most routinely performed components of obstetric ultrasound, yet small differences in scanning technique can significantly influence the reported measurement. Inconsistent pocket selection, inappropriate transducer orientation, inclusion of umbilical cord or fetal parts, excessive transducer pressure, and inconsistent use of amniotic fluid index(AFI) versus the maximum vertical pocket(MVP) may contribute to inaccurate classification of amniotic fluid volume.
The goal of amniotic fluid assessment is therefore not simply to obtain a number. The goal is to obtain a technically valid measurement, recognize the clinical pattern surrounding it, and communicate the finding appropriately.
Course Content
Credits
* AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ is designated for and awarded to physicians. Non-physician healthcare professionals, including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and sonographers may participate in activities accredited for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™; their respective credentialing and professional organizations independently recognize such participation toward their own continuing education requirements. Organizations that accept AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™-accredited courses toward non-physician CE include ARDMS, CCI, and Sonography Canada.
Course Details
- Duration
- 1.00 hour
- Released
- Jan 1, 2026
- Last Review
- Nov 1, 2026
- Expires
- Oct 31, 2029
Objectives
Learning Objectives:
1. Perform MVP and AFI using standardized technique.
2. Identify common pitfalls that alter fluid interpretation.
3. Document borderline findings with appropriate clinical context.
Target Audience
Physicians
Sonographers
Others who perform and/or interpret ultrasound.
Faculty & Disclosure
Faculty
Lashell Jones RDMS, RDCS
Disclosure
Accreditation
The Institute for Advanced Medical Education is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The Institute for Advanced Medical Education designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.
Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Sonographers: These courses are accepted by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), Sonography Canada, Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), and most other organizations.
Non physicians: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ is designated for and awarded to physicians. Non-physician healthcare professionals — including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and others — may participate in activities accredited for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™; their respective credentialing and professional organizations independently recognize such participation toward their own continuing education requirements.
