A review of the equine oviduct: pathology, evaluation, and current treatments

Abstract

The equine oviduct has a vital role in fertilization and early embryonic support in the mare. Its anatomy is unique compared to other domestic species, with a muscular sphincter at the uterotubal junction that allows selective transport of embryos but not unfertilized oocytes. Although oviductal pathology is believed to be an infrequent cause of subfertility, it remains a potential differential when other causes for pregnancy failure have been ruled out. This paper is a brief review of equine oviduct anatomy and functional characteristics, common pathologies, current diagnostic tools and treatments for clinically relevant pathology.