Surgical and non-surgical egg transfer in horses.

This research study explores the efficacy of both surgical and non-surgical egg transfer methods in horses. The results indicate a reasonable success rate in terms of pregnancy from both techniques.

Introduction

This study delves into the world of equine reproduction looking at two main techniques of egg transfer in horses. These techniques are surgical and non-surgical egg transfer and their effectiveness in generating successful pregnancies.

Methodology

• The experiment was conducted on a total of 58 donor mares.
• 23 zygotes (fertilized eggs) were recovered from 30 mares surgically between 1 to 6 days after ovulation.
• Similarly, 11 zygotes were recovered non-surgically from 28 mares between 6 to 8 days after ovulation.
• Both the recovered zygotes were then transferred to recipients who were synchronized to match the donor’s reproductive cycle.

Results

• Out of the 23 zygotes that were surgically transferred, 16 were successful and resulted in 7 pregnancies. This indicates a success rate of about 44%.
• In the case of non-surgical transfer, 7 out of the 11 zygotes resulted in 5 successful pregnancies, translating to an approximate success rate of 71%.

Conclusion

The study concludes that both the surgical and non-surgical methods of egg transfer can result in successful pregnancies in horses. The difference in success rates of the two methods could be due to a variety of factors, such as the timing of ovulation, the recovery and transfer techniques themselves, and the individual fertility of the mares in question. Both methods, however, can be considered viable options for egg transfer in horses.