The measurement of pig embryos
Cooper, J.E.; John, M.
Veterinary Record 100(19): 407
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 867782 Document Number: 120876
In piglets obtained by Caesarean section at gestational ages of 95-110 days, the measurement technique of Marrable & Ashdown [J. agric. Sci., Camb. 69, 443-447 (1967)] was found to be unreliable as 2-3 different figures would be obtained for body length, depending upon the position of the fetus; it was reliable in younger fetuses for 25-60 days of age. It is recommended that the piglet is positioned in a "natural" position on its side with its back straight and head extended; the length is then measured from the tip of the nose, through the tuber coxae to the base of the tail.