Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of transrectal sonography for early pregnancy diagnosis in sheep

The aim of the presented study was to determine accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of transrectal sonography for early pregnancy diagnosis in the ewe. Material and methods: The study was performed on 126 Pleven Black Head sheep. The animals were divided into three groups. Each group consisted of 42 sheep. Synchronization of oestrus was achieved by insertion of intravaginal sponges and injection of 500 IU eCG. All animals were inseminated by laparoscopy with frozen semen 54-56 hours after sponge removal. Transrectal sonography (5 MHz) was performed at post insemination days 20 (group 1), 25 (group 2) and 30 (group 3), respectively. Results: The accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were 76.2%, 93.3% and 33.3% in group 1; 80.9%, 90.6% and 50% in group 2 and 87.8%, 94.4% and 40% in group 3, respectively. Conclusion: Transrectal sonography for determination of pregnancy in sheep should be performed at the 30th day of pregnancy.