[Ultrasound guided surgical reduction of twin pregnancies in the horse up to the 46th day of pregnancy].

The study discusses a method to selectively eliminate one of two embryos during twin pregnancies in horses. The process involves the use of an ultrasound-guided puncture of the yolk sac or allantoic cavity, followed by fluid aspiration.

Methodology

• The study employed a method known as transvaginal ultrasound-guided puncture for the purpose of selectively terminating one of the twin embryos.
• This procedure involved puncturing either the yolk sac or allantoic cavity of the unwanted embryo and then aspirating the fluid within, effectively terminating the embryo’s development.

Sample and Procedure

• A total of 8 pregnant mares were included in the study. The duration of their pregnancies ranged from 22 to 46 days at the time of the procedure.
• Each mare was subjected to the transvaginal ultrasound-guided puncture procedure.

Results

• Post procedure, in six cases, the remaining twin’s development continued as normal. This suggests that the method could be an effective way to selectively terminate one of the embryos, while leaving the other unharmed.
• However, in the remaining two cases, both embryos were terminated. This indicates that there are potential risks involved with the procedure, as it might not always be possible to selectively terminate one of the twins without harming the other.

Conclusion

• The results show promise for the use of ultrasound-guided puncture as a method to manage twin pregnancies in horses. It can potentially reduce the risks associated with carrying and delivering twins in horses.
• However, the risks of accidental termination of both embryos need to be considered and mitigated for the procedure to be adopted widely.