Transabdominal ultrasonographic evaluation of fetal well-being in the late-term mare and cow.

The study examines how transabdominal ultrasonography can be used as a method to evaluate fetal well-being in late-term mares and cows, highlighting how this technique allows measurements of fetal heart rate, fetal activity, and fetal fluids. However, it acknowledges limitations such as low sensitivity and equipment requirements.

Transabdominal Ultrasonography

• This research revolves around the use of transabdominal ultrasonography as a method to examine the fetus in the second and third trimester of pregnancy in horses and cows.
• This method is considered informative as it allows for the measurement of crucial aspects like the fetal heart rate, level of fetal activity, and the quality and quantity of fetal fluids.

The Biophysical Profile

• There is a biophysical profile for horses that was created by researchers in the US in the 1990s which was used as a benchmark.
• However, this paper contests its sensitivity and potential difficulties that might arise during its application, specifically when it comes to measuring the aortic diameter and fetal breathing movements.

Application in Cows

• This method was first applied in cows by a Canadian research group in 2007. Their conclusion was that the method showed promise but had their concerns over its low sensitivity in cows.
• Another point of contention was the prediction of birth weight from fetal aortic diameter measurement. The authors of this paper rejected the possibility of making such predictions, contrary to other researchers’ suggestions.

Method Requirements and Usefulness

• There are certain requirements for this method to be implemented correctly. These include specific pieces of equipment, such as a 2 to 3.5 MHz convex transducer and basic ultrasonographic knowledge.
• Despite these requirements, the authors propose, in most cases, it can be executed with the dam in a stock, without the need to shave the examination area.
• On the positive side, the method can deliver useful information within 30-40 minutes. It can help determine whether the fetus is alive and can assist in identifying conditions like placentitis or the presence of twins.

Uteroplacental Unit’s Thickness Measurement’

• The technique allows measurement of the combined thickness of the uteroplacental unit, and an ongoing study by the authors showed higher normal values in Lipizzaner mares compared to those in other breeds.
• The authors conclude by asserting the need for advanced techniques to develop simple and low-cost methods for evaluating pregnant dams and their fetuses for assessing fetal viability in veterinary practice.