Development of a Chute to Facilitate Transvaginal Ultrasound Guided Oocyte Aspiration (TUGA) in the Sow

Abstract

A procedure developed for nonsurgical transvaginal ultrasound-guided oocyte aspiration in the mature sow was dependent upon development of a special chute. This chute was designed to immobilize and protect the sow. The floor of the chute possessed a metal bar that was elevated via a hydraulic lift until the weight of the sow rested on the bar, while her hooves were still in contact with the floor. This exact positioning of the female prevented her from resisting procedure and allowed for a comfortable setting for technician to manipulate the ovaries (per rectum) and perform transvaginal ultrasound guided oocyte aspiration (TUGA). Oocyte collection was performed in six sows, and none experienced detrimental health effects from the procedure.