Real-time ultrasonic imaging of the ovary and uterus of the dog.
The reproductive tracts of 50 bitches were ultrasonically imaged to evaluate the appearance of the uterus and ovaries at different stages of the oestrous cycle. Ovarian follicular growth was observed throughout the oestrous period. Follicles increased in size slowly until 7 days after the onset of pro-oestrus. Thereafter there was a rapid increase in diameter, indicating impending ovulation. The maximum recorded follicular diameter was 13 mm. It was not possible to observe ovulation since in the bitch follicles do not collapse as rapidly as in other species. During the post-ovulatory period there was a gradual loss of follicle shape and an increase in wall thickness. It was not possible to image the uterus of prepubertal bitches or young nulliparous bitches in anoestrus. During pro-oestrus and oestrus the uterus became increasingly hypoechoic with central regions of hyperechogenicity, which may represent uterine oedema. Uterine involution was observed in 5 bitches, and a rapid change in uterine diameter occurred over the first 3 days post partum. The ultrasonographic appearance was characteristic at this time.
England
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GC
Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Herts, UK.
Allen
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WE
D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004971:Estrus / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006080:Ovarian Follicle / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D010053:Ovary / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014599:Uterus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*