TABLE OF CONTENTS
Epididymectomy in Bulls and Rams: Procedure and Benefits
The epididymectomy consists of removing the tail of epididymis, and this technique has been described for both bulls and rams.
What is epididymectomy, and why is it important?
Epididymectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of the tail of the epididymis — the portion responsible for storing and transporting mature sperm. In bulls and rams, this technique is primarily performed to render the animal sterile while still allowing for normal libido and mating behavior, making them suitable for use as teaser animals in breeding programs.
Indications
Epididymectomy is primarily indicated for the preparation of teaser bulls and rams used in estrus detection programs. It is performed to render the male animal sterile while preserving normal libido and mating behavior.
Types
Caudal epididymectomy is preferred over vasectomy because the caudal epididymectomy is easier to perform.
Bilateral caudal epididymectomy alone will not prevent intromission and spread of venereal disease, hence it should be performed simultaneously with another teaser bull procedure.
Procedure
This procedure can be done using a caudal epidural with the animal in a standing position and since it usually is done in conjunction with another surgical technique, it is performed with the patient recumbent.
The distal one half of the scrotum is clipped and prepared surgically and the area over the tail of the epididymis on each side is infiltrated 2% lignocaine.
Once prepared, the surgeon grasps the neck of the scrotum and pushes the testicle ventrally.
A 3 cm incision is made over the tail of the epididymis through the skin and common vaginal tunic until the epididymis is exteriorized.
The tail of the epididymis is carefully dissected from the testicle, and towel clamps or Allis tissue forceps can be used to assist in handling and manipulation of the epididymis.
A hemostat is placed on the ductus deferens and the body of the epididymis.
Ligatures with size 0 absorbable suture are placed proximal to the hemostats. The tail of the epididymis is removed by transection distal to the hemostats.
The common vaginal tunic is closed using size 0 absorbable suture. The skin can be closed with non-absorbable cruciate sutures or the incisions can be left open to allow ventral drainage. The procedure is repeated on the remaining testicle.
Post Operative Care
Antibiotics should be administered to prevent any postoperative infection. Perform yearly evaluations of the teaser animal’s ejaculate to ensure sterility of the animal.
