Persistent Hymen in a Jersey Crossbred Heifer-A Novel Approach with Borescope

Background: Visualizing the internal genital organs in cattle using vaginoscope or endoscope is a costly affair and practically it is not possible to use this instrument in diagnosis of anatomical defects causing infertility under field conditions. An attempt was made to replace the costly instruments with low cost and easily available borescope in the diagnosis of persistent hymen in a Jersey crossbred heifer and the procedure has been reported for the benefit of field veterinarians and theriogenologists.Methods: A Jersey crossbred heifer with normal estrous cycle length and that failed to conceive even after 6 inseminations with fertile semen was presented to the Gynaecological ward. Rectal examination revealed a fluctuating swelling in the vagina. Vaginal examination revealed obstruction in the passage and the vaginal speculum could not be progressed into the vagina. Ultrasonographic examination revealed hypoechoic fluid in the vaginal cavity. A novel approach with borescope revealed a clear view of the membranous obstruction at the level of vagino-vestibular junction. Hence, the case was diagnosed as persistent hymen and hymenotomy was performed. Result: Upon hymenotomy, about two litres of thick, gummy, tenacious reddish brown colored mucus was evacuated from the vagina. The patency was checked and the animal was treated with antibiotics for three days. The animal was inseminated at the subsequent estrus on the 22nd day and pregnancy was confirmed on 45th day. The animal calved normally and delivered a live male calf. Thus, the borescope could be effectively used in the field of animal reproduction as an alternative tool for the diagnosis of developmental defects in the vagina.