Real-Time Ultrasonography as a Diagnostic Tool in Bovine Reproduction

Abstract

Assessment of the onset of estrus and time of ovulation, early pregnancy diagnosis and fetometry to estimate fetal age as well as progression of fetal growth, diagnosis of pregnancy disorders, course of uterine involution and uterine disorders (endometritis, pyometra, hydrometra) are factors/functions that need to be closely monitored in order to augment the reproductive efficiency of cattle. Transrectal real-time ultrasonography has proved to be a rapid and reliable technique for studying such reproductive functions in bovines. It provides information for better management of dairy herds.
Study of follicular dynamics and follicular structures help veterinarians to understand reproductive cycle and provides information to decide the correct line of treatment for ovarian pathological conditions. Ultrasonographic imaging of uterus helps to access the pregnancy status, involution of uterus after parturition and various pathological condition of uterus. Ultrasonography has proved its worth in improving the efficiency of recent gynaecological technique like artificial insemination and embryo transfer. There is still a great potential for the continued application of this technology to further improve our understanding of the reproductive processes, disease diagnosis and to maximize reproductive efficiency of the bovine species.