As regular visitors and users of veterinary ultrasound may already know, Vet Image Solutions can provide ultrasound scanning and training in the UK and Ireland. There are many advantages of using ultrasonography as an aid for your individual work. Ultrasound scanning is relatively cheap, easy to use with the appropriate training, provides clear and distinct images and can deliver immediate results.

Peter May (a Swindon-based a cattle veterinarian and embryo transfer expert) is currently promoting his training courses on the new Draminski iScan for which Vet Image Solutions are the only official authorised UK distributor – for more information please look at our Draminski iScan page here. This article aims to introduce the topics of cattle pregnancy and the importance of ultrasound imaging of the corpus luteum for subsequent embryo transfer. Then, articles to follow in the next few weeks will look at this subject in more detail.

The gestation of bovine pregnancy is on average 285 days long, not dissimilar to the gestation of human pregnancy (266 days). It is therefore interesting to speculate that the cow could be used as a model by which to study human pregnancy as an alternative to the more commonly used mouse model. The levels of hormone concentrations are also important during pregnancy. As an example, in order for pregnancy to be maintained, progesterone must be produced – a role for the corpus luteum. Consequently, detection of the corpus luteum can be indicative of pregnancy establishment, as opposed to corpus luteum regression indicative of non-pregnancy (Moreira F. and Hansen P.J. University of Florida).

Following on, ultrasound scanning can be used as a method by which to detect the presence of the corpus luteum, and subsequently, pregnancy. Furthermore, identification of this structure can also be useful when attempting to carry out embryo transfer.

Embryo transfer is the process by which fertilised eggs are transferred into the uterus resulting in pregnancy, and can be carried out in humans and animals. Peter May has previously described how the Draminski iScan can be used as a helpful tool in such cases, and which will be discussed in more detail in future articles. Peter also revealed that if the correct probe is developed, the iScan may be useful in a situation such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Future articles aim to detail exactly how the Draminski iScan can be an advantageous tool for embryo transfer, and its potential for future use in IVF, so keep an eye on the website! Finally, for more information regarding the training courses run by Peter, please do not hesitate to contact us on  0208 432 9802.