Ultrasonographic evaluation of normal boar testicles

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Swine Husbandry

Background:

• Accurate testicular measurements are crucial for assessing boar reproductive potential.
• B-mode ultrasonography is a non-invasive tool for evaluating testicular morphology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare physical and ultrasonographic testicular measurements with semen analysis and seminiferous epithelial area (SEA) in Landrace boars.
• To identify age-related differences in testicular parameters between young and mature boars.

Main Methods:

• Physical examination and B-mode ultrasonography of testicles in 14 Landrace boars (7 at 9 months, 7 at 15 months).
• Semen analysis performed, followed by surgical removal for SEA determination.
• Comparison of physical, ultrasonographic, semen, and SEA data.

Main Results:

• No significant correlation found between semen analysis and physical or ultrasonographic data.
• No significant correlation found between SEA data and semen analysis.
• Significant differences in SEA, tunica albuginea thickness, testicular diameter, testicular length, and epididymal diameter between 9- and 15-month-old boars.
• Established ratios between physical and ultrasonographic measurements (4:1) and within testicular dimensions (2.6:1).

Conclusions:

• Semen analysis in boars does not correlate with standard physical or ultrasonographic testicular measurements.
• Age significantly impacts testicular morphology and SEA in Landrace boars.
• Ultrasonography provides valuable data on testicular dimensions, but its direct correlation with fertility requires further investigation.