The use of the starch grain and phenolsulphonphthalein tests to investigate infertile cows
Kessy, B.M.; Noakes, D.E.
Veterinary Record 105(21): 489-491
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 575452 Document Number: 149081
The starch grain and phenolsulphonphthalein (PSP) tests were used to investigate the patency of the Fallopian tubes in five "repeat breeder" cows. Evidence of tubal lesions was determined in three cows on rectal palpation. Using the starch grain test, bilateral occlusion was determined in three animals, left sided occlusion was determined in one and right sided occlusion in another. With the PSP test there was evidence of bilateral occlusion in two of four cows. In four cows the genital organs were examined visually and by palpation at laparotomy, and in two cows tubal occlusion was confirmed when they were flushed with saline, and patency was restored. In one animal both ovaries were almost completely encapsulated, while in the fourth adhesions involving the fimbriae occluded the ostia. These were broken down and this cow was the only one which subsequently conceived.