Performing Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) on cattle Part 1 - The OPU process

Oocyte Retrieval Procedure Setup
📌 Monica is undergoing an ovum pickup (OPU) procedure, initially receiving a cordal epidural anesthetic and a small dose of ACP in the tail vein for proper sedation.
🧼 The ultrasound probe is freshly gloved for each cow to ensure hygiene and prevent transmission of pathogens between animals.
✋ Before probe insertion, the rectum must be emptied to allow for clear grasping of the ovaries (ovaries) and positioning them near the probe head.

Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration Technique
📏 The veterinarian double-gloves to maintain sterility while the arm is inside the rectum, preventing air entry which hinders the procedure.
💧 Surgical spirit swabs are used to clean the external area before inserting the probe, which is lubricated with KY Jelly on the tip for a clear image.
🎯 The process involves placing the probe in the vagina, grasping the right ovary, and gently advancing the needle guide so the needle emerges precisely next to the probe tip to visualize penetration into the follicular structure to aspirate fluid and the oocyte.

Post-Aspiration and Equipment Quality
🌡️ After puncturing follicles, the needle guide is removed, and the collection tube is flushed with collection medium, which is directed into a water bath maintained at 35°C for optimal oocyte viability.
💨 The ambient room temperature should ideally be above 27°C, preferably 30°C, as the oocyte is highly temperature-sensitive.
📈 Successful retrieval depends on quick needle placement directly into the follicle; the specialist notes the current BCF-made equipment offers superior handling and image quality, aiming for higher follicle puncture rates and subsequent embryo production/pregnancies.

Key Points & Insights
➡️ Sterility is paramount: Ensuring a clean probe and clean external environment is critical before any internal procedures.
➡️ Temperature control is essential: Maintain the collection medium at $35^\circ\text{C}$ and the room temperature above $27^\circ\text{C}$ to preserve oocyte viability.
➡️ Precision in needle guidance: Accurately visualizing the needle emerging near the probe tip and penetrating the follicle quickly maximizes the chance of retrieving the oocyte.
➡️ Equipment validation: High-quality, specialized equipment (like the BCF set mentioned) can significantly improve visualization and procedural success.

📸 Video summarized with SummaryTube.com on Dec 03, 2025, 15:16 UTC