Evaluation of pregnancy and foaling rates after reduction of twin pregnancy via transvaginal ultrasound-guided aspiration in mares

Abstract

Objective-To assess pregnancy and live foaling rates after reduction of twin pregnancy via transvaginal ultrasound-guided aspiration (TUA) in mares and evaluate effects of gestational period, localization of conceptuses, fluid aspiration volume, and combination of TUA with embryonic or fetal puncture on these outcomes. Design-Clinical trial. Animals-44 mares pregnant with twins (25 to 62 days of gestation). Procedures-TUA was performed in all mares and combined with embryonic or fetal puncture in 13. Follow-up ultrasonographic examinations were performed by referring veterinarians. Effects of gestational period and TUA-related variables on pregnancy and foaling rates were assessed. Results-S..