부산대학교 도서관

Endometritis, which refers to chronic inflammation of the superficial layers of the uterus, is caused by a failure of the defense mechanism to eliminate antigens, and is a common cause of infertility in mares. Therefore, ultrasound examination is essential during diagnosis to perform the differentials. Typically, treatments that cleanse the uterus are used to treat endometritis and are they also beneficial in mare reproduction. However, alternative therapies, which are less expensive, are needed for the treatment of this disease. Taking this into account, ozone gas was used to control the microorganisms associated with this disease (virus, bacteria, and fungi). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the efficiency of ozonized Lactated Ringer’s Solution (LRS) infused into the uterus, as an alternative therapy for recurrent endometritis. Five animals (n = 5) with previous reproductive issues were treated during the estrus phase with ozonized Lactated Ringer’s Solution. Cytology, microbiology, and uterine and ovarian ultrasound examinations were performed to evaluate uterine edema and follicular dynamics. At the end of the treatment, 20% of the animals showed positive results in embryo recovery. Such improvement in embryo recovery is the caused by the decrease in polymorphonuclear cells and the absence of infection by microorganisms in the uterus. In some mares, it was possible to observe a recovery in embryo production despite a history of infertility. Therefore, the use of ozone in the uterus could modulate inflammatory responses to increase embryo recovery in mares with fertility problems.