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Ovarian function and morphology in the mare after multiple follicular punctures
I B Bøgh1, P Brink, H E Jensen
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Section for Reproduction, Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Dyrlaegevej 68, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|October 1, 2003
Summary
Repeated follicular aspiration in mares does not affect ovulation or corpus luteum formation, preserving ovarian function. However, it can cause fibrosis and potential abscesses, which may impact fertility.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Ultrasound-guided transvaginal oocyte recovery and transfer in mares offers an alternative to in vitro embryo production.
- Assessing the impact on subsequent fertility is crucial before clinical application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate ovarian function and morphology in mares following repeated follicular puncture procedures.
Main Methods:
- Four Norwegian pony mares underwent 14-26 follicular puncture sessions over 8 years.
- Ovaries were collected via ovariectomy or post-mortem for macroscopic and histological examination.
- Control ovaries from 7 non-aspirated mares were used for comparison.
Main Results:
- Ovarian function, including ovulation and corpus luteum development, remained normal in all experimental mares during their final breeding season.
- Histology revealed reparative fibrosis and haemosiderosis in the ovarian stroma.
- One mare exhibited chronic oophoritis and a cystic structure with a cartilaginous capsule.
Conclusions:
- Repeated follicular aspirations do not impede future folliculogenesis, ovulation, or corpus luteum formation.
- Ovarian puncture leads to reparative fibrosis and carries a risk of abscess formation, potentially affecting fertility.