Successful embryo recovery from swine by a minimal invasive technique

An endoscopic embryo flushing technique was elaborated to make possible the minimal invasive collection of ova from swine. After experience with pig laparoscopy, the method of endoscopic embryo recovery in small ruminants was adapted to the abdominal anatomy of swine. Twelve oestrus-synchronized gilts were operated 5 days after artificial insemination. In 10 cases both uterine horns were flushed by using a Rüsch-Gold balloon catheter, flushing cannula and atraumatic grasping forceps beside the 10 mm diameter optic. The whole procedure took approximately 35-45 min. The average collection rate was 40.4%. According to the results, endoscopic embryo recovery can be a useful method in swine reproductive research and in top breeding in the future.