Abstract
A guide for the use of ultrasound in small ruminants:
• B-mode ultrasonography has led to major breakthroughs in our understanding of basic reproductive physiology and have a great impact on the reproductive management of small ruminants in the field.
• Appropriate use of ultrasonography requires a good knowledge of the anatomy of the reproductive tract and the physiological processes that control reproductive function, because the images change with changes in the reproductive status of the animals.
• Selection of appropriate equipment and technique is critical for producing accurate observations and diagnoses.
• The transrectal technique is the only option for studying the ovaries in the female and the accessory glands in the male, and is also the best choice for pregnancy diagnosis 30-45 days after conception.
• The transabdominal technique is the best choice for the diagnosis of single or multiple pregnancies between 45 and 85 days after conception because it combines speed and accuracy.
• The expertise of the operator is crucial in the interpretation of the images, so extensive training is required.
• Ultrasonography is a useful tool for the diagnosis of reproductive pathologies in both males and females.
• B-mode ultrasonography has led to major breakthroughs in our understanding of basic reproductive physiology and have a great impact on the reproductive management of small ruminants in the field.
• Appropriate use of ultrasonography requires a good knowledge of the anatomy of the reproductive tract and the physiological processes that control reproductive function, because the images change with changes in the reproductive status of the animals.
• Selection of appropriate equipment and technique is critical for producing accurate observations and diagnoses.
• The transrectal technique is the only option for studying the ovaries in the female and the accessory glands in the male, and is also the best choice for pregnancy diagnosis 30-45 days after conception.
• The transabdominal technique is the best choice for the diagnosis of single or multiple pregnancies between 45 and 85 days after conception because it combines speed and accuracy.
• The expertise of the operator is crucial in the interpretation of the images, so extensive training is required.
• Ultrasonography is a useful tool for the diagnosis of reproductive pathologies in both males and females.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Practical Atlas of Ruminant and Camelid Reproductive Ultrasonography |
| Editors | L. DesCôteaux, J. Colloton, G. Gnemmi |
| Place of Publication | USA |
| Publisher | John Wiley & Sons |
| Chapter | 11 |
| Pages | 181-210 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780813815510 |
| Publication status | Published - 2011 |