Principles and Clinical Uses of Real-Time Ultrasonography in Female Swine Reproduction

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Real-time (b-mode) ultrasonography (RTU) has evolved into a crucial diagnostic tool for swine reproductive health over the past 30 years.
• Initially used for pregnancy detection, RTU now assesses various reproductive states in female swine, including peri-pubertal and mature non-pregnant animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of the principles and clinical applications of RTU in swine reproduction.
• To highlight the utility of RTU in addressing female reproductive performance issues in commercial swine operations.

Main Methods:

• The review discusses the transabdominal approach as the preferred modality for visualizing the swine reproductive tract due to safety, accessibility, and efficiency.
• It emphasizes the importance of adjustable frequency transducers, with a 5 MHz probe recommended for versatile imaging.
• Key equipment requirements for field use include portability, ease of cleaning, long battery life, and durability.

Main Results:

• RTU aids pregnancy diagnosis through breeding records, embryonic fluid, and fetal structures.
• Sonographic evaluation of uterus and ovaries, assessing echogenicity, echotexture, and size, is crucial for diagnosing reproductive problems.
• Clinical applications include assessing delayed puberty, estrus intervals, conception/farrowing rate disruptions, and peripartum disorders.

Conclusions:

• RTU is an indispensable tool for enhancing reproductive performance in commercial swine herds.
• Its application extends beyond pregnancy detection to comprehensive reproductive health management.
• Continued use and understanding of RTU principles can significantly improve swine production efficiency.