Examination of the male reproductive tract

Question 1

why?

Answer 1

Pre/post-purchase
Pre-mating
In response to a reproductive problem
Insurance certificates

Question 2

reasons for bulls being unsound

Answer 2

Physically unsound
Below scrotal circumf. threshold
Poor semen quality
(Low serving capacity)

Question 3

evaluating male fertility

Answer 3

Clinical history 
Physical examination 
Genital examination 
Interpretation of results 
Semen evaluation 
Mating ability/libido 
Other tests if required

Question 4

clinical history

Answer 4

General animal info.
Past performance and illness/ lameness
Future use

Question 5

physical exam

Answer 5

Abnormalities affecting animal now, & in future
Clinical significance of abnormalities
Conformation of Pastern joint and Hind limb

Question 6

clinical exam

Answer 6

+/- TPR, full clinical examination
Feet
Body condition
Teeth

Question 7

genital exam

Answer 7

External lesions of scrotum – Scrotal mange -rams, external wounds
Scrotal palpation - Systematic evaluation of contents, Consider size, tone/consistency, lesions/symmetry

Question 8

testicular tone

Answer 8

Good indicator of sperm output and breeding soundness

“Flexed bicep” tone

Question 9

lesions

Answer 9

Epididymo-orchitis or epididymitis 
Infectious, entering organs: 
Penetrating wounds 
Haematogenous 
Retrograde infection 
Iatrogenic (following vasectomy) 
Lesions of scrotal lymph 
node – Caseous lymphadenitis in rams

Question 10

epididymititis

Answer 10

Does not resolve

Foreign body reaction