Transcervical Endoscopic Procedures in the Bitch

Abstract

The use of transcervical endoscopic procedures has revolutionized artificial insemination and diagnosis of infertility in the bitch. Transcervical insemination can be utilized for intrauterine insemination; and is of great benefit during the insemination of chilled or frozen semen and poor quality semen (fresh, chilled or frozen) by improving pregnancy rates compared to vaginal artificial insemination, without the risks of anesthesia and surgery. The endoscope can be used to obtain endometrial culture, cytology and biopsy specimens in the awake, standing bitch, obviating the need for anesthesia and surgery. Endoscopy can also be used for hysteroscopy in the non-pregnant and postpartum bitch to evaluate possible anatomic or pathologic abnormalities of the endometrium. The unique vaginal and cervical anatomy of the bitch requires specialized equipment and training for successful transcervical cannulation, but with practice, clinicians can master this technique and provide useful diagnostics and a unique service to their clientele. [...]