Environmental, Physiological, and Therapeutic Influences on Testicular Hemodynamics in Rams and Bucks

Testicular hemodynamics, the study of blood flow dynamics within the testicles, is vital for male reproductive success in sheep and goats due to its role in spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and thermoregulation. This article provides a comprehensive review of testicular blood flow assessment, primarily via Doppler ultrasonography, focusing on key parameters such as resistive and pulsatility indexes. The review elucidates environmental, physiological, and technical factors influencing testicular perfusion, including heat stress, seasonality, age, disease, and measurement techniques. It highlights the clinical relevance of testicular blood flow in diagnosing and improving reproductive performance, detailing strategies such as nutritional supplementation (Coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, zinc, folic acid) and hormonal interventions (human chorionic gonadotropin), especially under heat stress conditions. Future research priorities include the standardization of reference Doppler parameters, advanced imaging modalities, and the exploration of emerging therapeutic interventions to optimize reproductive management in small ruminants.