COMPLICATIONS OF LATE GESTATION: ULTRASOUND ASSESSMENT OF THE EQUINE PREGNANCY

摘要

Ultrasound technology offers safe and extensive investigation of the equine pregnancy throughout gestation, by the use of a combined transrectal and transabdominal approach. Ultrasound monitoring of feto-placental parameters provides valuable information in the identification and management of high risk pregnancies. Most pathological conditions of the equine pregnancy are commonly diagnosed during the third trimester of gestation, although the underlying pathology may have been present for a prolonged period of time prior to detection. The lack of evident clinical signs in the early stages of most conditions delays intervention and oftentimes hampers the ability to successfully manage a high risk pregnancy. Monitoring the equine pregnancy at regularintervals throughout gestation would allow early identification of problems and implementation of corrective strategies in a more timely fashion.