Papadopoulou Μ. DVM, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
Splinaki C. DVM, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
Ververidis C. DVM, PhD, Companion Animal Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
Introduction
Endoscopic vaginoscopy has been used in reproduction of bitches in recent years for diagnosis and transcervical procedures such as artificial insemination. However, few data are available concerning endoscopic imaging of the vagina. The aim of the study was to record the findings from the vaginoscopy during the stages of the ovarian cycle and gestation.
Materials and methods
Findings of 17 healthy dogs were included in the study. Prior to ovariohysterectomy, the vaginoscopic evaluation by a rigid cystourethroscope (32 cm, 30o) were recorded and images were captured. The stage of the estrous cycle was determined by hormonal measurements (progesterone and estradiol- 17β) and macroscopic examination of the uterus and the ovaries.
Results
Endoscopically, the following vaginoscopic phases - mucosal images were found: 1) inactive, flattened phase during anoestrus & juvenile, 2) oedematous phase during proestrus, 3) initial shrinkage and wrinkling phase during the beginning of estrus, 4) total shrinkage and angulated phase - close to ovulation and towards the end of estrus, 5) progressive decline in the size of mucosal folds during dioestrus and 6) almost declining phase during the ending of dioestrus and beginning of anoestrus.
Conclusions
Endoscopic images of the vagina differ adequately between the stages of the ovarian cycle and may provide additional diagnostic information regarding stage of oestrous cycle.
References
- Levy X (2016) Videovaginoscopy of the canine vagina. Repruduction in Domestic Animals 51, 31-36.
- Romagnoli S, Lopate C (2014) Transcervical Artificial Insemination in dogs and cats: Review of the Technique and Practical Aspects. Repro- duction in Domestic Animals 49, 56-63.
