Ultrasound Transrectal Pregnancy Examinations

Policy

The New Zealand Veterinary Association believes that ultrasound pregnancy examinations incorporating the use of a rectal probe should only be undertaken by veterinarians or suitably trained and skilled technicians. 

Explanation

The New Zealand Veterinary Association recognises the value of ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis techniques in sheep, cattle, deer and horses.

This policy applies to cattle, deer, and sheep. The pregnancy diagnosis of horses by ultrasound examination is addressed in the NZVA position statement Per Rectal Ultrasound Pregnancy Diagnosis of Horses.

In unskilled hands the use of a rectal probe poses a significant threat to the animals’ welfare due to the potential for damage to vital structures and the consequences of misdiagnosis.

Use of a hand-held probe requires the insertion of the operator's arm deep into the rectum of the animal in order to identify, manipulate and scan the uterus. The resulting image requires skilled interpretation to identify the presence or absence of a foetus or disease. NZVA believes that veterinarians or trained rural technicians have the most appropriate skills to undertake that interpretation.

It is common practice in cattle to introduce the probe via a rigid rod rather than the operator’s arm. The lack of flexibility and ability to manipulate increases the risk of damage. Rigid rod operators need to have the training, expertise, anatomical knowledge and diagnostic capability to carry out these procedures safely.

Note

Where the transducer is applied externally to the abdomen to determine pregnancy, care should be taken to safeguard the welfare of the animals during handling.

See related position statement “Per Rectal Ultrasound Pregnancy Diagnosis of Horses”.

Policy Files: 

5d - Ultrasound Transrectal Pregnancy Exams - 18Aug06.pdf