Endoscopic methods in swine reproductive research: a review.

ABSTRACT

One of the major objectives of applying clinical methods is to get a more profound knowledge of the state of an organism. With the expansion of knowledge in physiology as well as the perfection of techniques the different applications have also improved. Over the past decade it has become obvious that in swine reproductive research such techniques are needed which do not influence the physiological processes and guarantee animal welfare. The minimal invasive and non-invasive methods (transabdominal endoscopy and ultrasonography) developed in human medical practice can be successfully adapted to the requirements of swine reproductive research. The present paper reports on the experience gained with abdominal endoscopy in swine so far.