Comparison of laparoscopic and laparotomic methods in embryo transfer in Tuj ewes

The aim of this study was to transfer fresh embryos obtained through a superovulation protocol in Tuj ewes to recipient animals using either laparoscopic or laparotomic methods, and to evaluate the embryos’ viability and survival rates. For this purpose, 10 Tuj ewes were used as donors and 20 Tuj ewes as recipients. Intravaginal progesterone-impregnated sponges were placed in the donor ewes during the breeding season for 5 days. FSH was applied in decreasing doses starting from the 8th day, and estrus ewes were mated with fertile rams. On day 7 following mating, embryos produced in vivo were collected surgically and evaluated under the stereo microscope. Intravaginal sponges were placed in the recipient sheep for 9 days for synchronization, and embryo transfer was performed on day 18 by laparoscopic and laparotomic methods. While the pregnancy rate was observed with the laparotomic method was 33.3%, the pregnancy rate with the laparoscopic method was determined to be 80% (P>0.05). In the evaluation of the obtained embryos, 15 morulae, 1 early blastocyst, 4 blastocysts, and 1 expanded blastocyst were determined. As a result, embryos obtained from Tuj ewes through superovulation protocols were transferred to recipient ewes via laparoscopic and laparotomic methods, and pregnancy was achieved. In the future, with more comprehensive studies using different protocols, the number of embryos obtained from Tuj ewes and transfer methods can be improved. It was also determined that this method could be used to protect local genetic resources of Tuj ewes.