Laparoscopic folliculocentesis and PGs determination in alpacas (Lama pacos): Preliminary report

Ovarian dynamics are important because follicle size is directly related to oocyte diameter and this affects its developmental capacity in many species. In order to better understand the follicular dynamics and the physiological cascade leading to ovulation, we employed a novel technique, the laparoscopic folliculocentesis, in 4 non-pregnant multiparous females ranging from three to 7 years old. Prior to the laparoscopy, transvaginal ultrasound was performed to monitor follicular dynamics until each ovary had a number of follicles of 5 mm of diameter. All procedures were performed under general anaesthesia. Once the trocar was inserted, the ovary was visualized and then grasped with an atraumatic forceps. The contents of each follicle ‡6 mm were aspirated using an 18-G 20 cm aspiration needle, attached to a sterile 10 ml syringe, inserted through the abdominal wall. The fluid of each follicle was centrifuged, at 3000 g for 10 min, to remove residual cells, than the lipidic fraction was extracted with diethyl ether, resuspended with saline buffer and the prostaglandin (PG) E2 and F2a presence were determined by RIA. In all samples, PGs were present. The results suggest laparoscopic folliculocentesis can be used safely in alpacas and give information of follicle dynamic