Ultrasonographic Features of Testes of West African Dwarf Bucks

Abstract

Objective- This study described the ultrasonographic features of the testes in West African Dwarf bucks.<br />Design- Experimental study<br />Procedure- Ultrasonographic images of testes of WAD bucks were acquired in longitudinal, sagittal and transverse planes using a Draminski 5MHz portable ultrasound machine after proper restraint of the bucks and gel application on the scrotum. <br />Animals-Five WAD bucks age ranging from 1 – 1½ years, weighing an average of 15±0.5 kg were acquired for the study. <br />Results-The seminiferous tubules showed as a homogenous moderately echogenic region separated by the hypoechoic inter-testicular septum, while the mediastinum testis showed as a thick band of hyperechoic tissue. The epididymis was an anechoic to heterogenously hypoechoic region bounded by the hyperechoic scrotal wall. <br />Conclusion and Clinical Relevance-Ultrasonographic images were very useful in ante-mortem clinical assessment of WAD bucks which will aid in proper selection for improved breeding programs.