novel new software tool

ABSTRACT Objective Placental calcification is associated with an increased risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality. The subjectivity of current ultrasound methods of assessment of placental calcification indicate that a more objective method is required. The aim of this study was to correlate the percentage of calcification defined by the clinician using a new software tool for calculating the extent of placental calcification, with traditional ultrasound methods and correlation with pregnancy outcome. Methods 90 placental images were individually assessed. An upper threshold was defined based on high intensity to quantify calcification within the placenta. Output metrics were then produced including the overall percentage of calcification in reference to the total number of pixels within the region of interest. The results were correlated with traditional ultrasound methods of assessment of placental calcification and with pregnancy outcome. Results The results demonstrate a significant correlation between placental calcification as defined using the software and traditional methods of Grannum grading of placental calcification. Whilst correlation with perinatal outcome and cord pH was not significant due to small numbers, patients with placental calcification assessed by the computerised software at the upper quartile had higher rates of poor perinatal outcome when compared with those at the lower quartile (8/22 (36%) vs 3/23 (13%) NS).