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Reducing inter-observer variability in embryo evaluation by means of training courses

Abstract:

Purpose: To study the utility of a training session offered to junior embryologists, comparing the results obtained with those reported by a group of senior embryologists. Methods: The 62 junior embryologists participanting were asked to decide on the quality of the embryos and theg clinical decision to be taken. Results: The junior embryologists' success rate following the training course was significantly higher than before for embryo classification (48.4%∈±∈20.4 vs. 59.7% ±16.7) (p∈<∈0.05) and for clinical decision (54.7%∈±∈19.6 vs. 68.7%∈±∈17.6) (p∈<∈0.005). Comparison of the degree of agreement between the categories assigned by the junior embryologists and those assigned by consensus among the group of senior embryologists revealed kappa values of k∈=∈0.32 before the course and of k∈=∈0.54 after it. The comparison between pre- and post-training junior and senior embryologists also reflected an improvement in the kappa index for clinical decision, from k∈=∈0.54 to k∈=∈0.68. Conclusions: Training courses are shown to be an effective tool for increasing the degree of agreement between junior and senior embryologists. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.