Determination of gestational age by measuring defined embryonic and foetal indices with ultrasonography in Abaza and Gurcu goats

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine gestational age in Abaza and Gurcu goats by measuring certain embryonic and foetal indices with ultrasonography. A 5-7.5 MHz linear probe was used to obtain ultrasound measurements from 30 pregnant goats (10 Abaza and 20 Gurcu). Heart diameter (HD), biparietal diameter (BPD), crown-rump length (CRL), trunk diameter (TD) and placentome diameter (PD) were measured to determine gestational age. The mean of embryonic and foetal indices were calculated and linear regression was performed. Heart diameter measurements for Abaza and Gurcu goats were significantly different on days 45 (P = 0.048) and 60 (P = 0.019). Biparietal diameter values were significantly different on day 45 (P = 0.035). Crown-rump length measurements were significantly different at days 30 (P = 0.003) and 60 (P = 0.002). We determined that HD and TD were the best predictors of gestational age for Abaza goats (R-2= 0.952, R-2= 0.949, respectively), whereas HD and CRL were the best predictors of gestational age for Gurcu goats (R-2= 0.933, R-2= 0.942, respectively). Based upon our study results, these specific indices could be applied during ultrasonographic examinations of Abaza and Gurcu goats to confirm gestational age when the day of mating is unknown.