Evaluator effect on the ultrasound measurement of subcutaneous fat deposition and loin eye area from weaning to slaughter lambs.

摘要: Background and Aim Ultrasound is a non-invasive technique that enables animal evaluation body condition classification of animals. Although it not difficult to obtain an image, the analysis this image can influence results quality. This study aimed evaluate repeatability reproducibility technician trained in interpretation obtained using different ultrasound frequencies. Materials Methods Ninety-six lambs were used, ranging weight from 15 40 kg. The images captured linear probe 13 cm, with 3.5 megahertz (MHz) frequency acoustic couplant aid "standoff" or multifrequency transducer (6 8 MHz), on B mode, 8.0 MHz frequency. All measurements performed by same technician, left side, between 12th 13th rib. Five evaluators, at two times, Image J software measured loin eye area (LEA; only for Longissimus thoracis et lumborum depth (DLM), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), plus skin (SFST), (ST). Results For LEA, DLM, SFT, SFST, ST, variation was observed (p 0.05) 2 times evaluation. Images had better indices indices. Accordingly, identity test demonstrated equivalent. Conclusion more accurate precise. It important use one evaluator providing simultaneous training all evaluators.