Transrectal ultrasonographic characterization of the accessory sex glands, pelvic urethra, and ureters in normal geldings.

This study investigates the use of transrectal ultrasound to examine the internal reproductive and urinary structures in healthy geldings (castrated male horses). The aim is to define normal characteristics and sizes of these structures, allowing for more effective diagnosis of urogenital tract abnormalities.

Objective and Experimentation

• The purpose of this research was to identify standard ultrasonographic traits and sizes of certain parts of the internal urogenital tract (specifically the sex glands, pelvic urethra, and ureters) within healthy geldings.
• The study was conducted using eleven geldings that showed no prior history of urogential health issues.
• A single observer, with specific experience in ultrasound analysis of gelding sex glands, conducted the ultrasound examinations.
• The examinations made use of rectal linear array and microconvex array transducers to explore the structure and relative anatomical connections of the targeted organs.

Findings

• The study provided a range of statistical data, including mean measurements, standard errors, confidence intervals, and range values for each targeted structure.
• The measurements showed no statistically significant differences between the left and right sides of the studied organs, or measurements sourced using different types of transducer.
• Fluid presence was discovered in the seminal vesicles of 7 of the 9 subjects who were part of the research.
• The study also identified cysts in the midline of the urethra, as well as in the bulbourethral gland and prostate.

Conclusion

• The establishment of normal ultrasound-based reference ranges within this study can assist in clinical examinations of geldings suspected to be suffering from internal urogenital tract disorders.