Equine breeding season is right around the corner. Now is the time to ensure your equipment, protocols, and team are ready for a smooth and successful season.
To help you prepare, here are a few practical ultrasound tips and reminders:
Transrectal Ultrasound:
Depending on the indication and stage of the reproductive cycle, examinations may be performed transrectally or transabdominally. For most transrectal reproductive exams, a linear probe is preferred. Linear probes provide:
Minimal distortion of reproductive structures
Greater accuracy for measurement and follicle scoring
Consistent image quality for pregnancy diagnosis
While a curvilinear rectal probe can provide acceptable measurements, the relatively fixed anatomy within the mare’s abdomen makes locating the ovaries and early fetus straightforward without the need for a broader scan field. For clinicians performing a high volume of reproductive work, the improved accuracy of a linear probe outweighs the wider field of view offered by a curvilinear probe.
Important reminder: Prior to any transrectal sonographic examination, thorough evacuation of fecal material from the rectum is essential for optimal image quality and patient safety.
Transabdominal Ultrasound:
For transabdominal exams in mares, a curvilinear rectal probe or a curvilinear T-handle probe are both appropriate choices. In most cases, clipping is unnecessary unless the mare has a particularly heavy winter coat. Alcohol alone is typically sufficient to achieve adequate probe contact.