Testicular Color Doppler Ultrasonography in Barki Rams

The aim of the present study was to determine the blood flow dynamics of the testes of pre and post pubertal clinically normal Barki rams. Rams (n=8) were divided into two equal groups according to age. The first group was pre-pubertal rams (aged 4-6 months) and the second group was post pubertal sexually mature rams (aged 18-24 months). Doppler indices such as resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI) of the supra-testicular artery (STA) and marginal artery (MA) were measured by color and spectral Doppler ultrasonography of the scrotum and spermatic cord region. Blood samples were collected and serum testosterone level was evaluated. Results revealed that there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the two age groups of Barki rams in blood flow parameters of supra-testicular artery and marginal artery. Even though, Serum testosterone was significantly higher in the post pubertal group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the sexual maturity in the rams was associated with significant changes in testosterone concentration but not in Doppler indices. Moreover, Doppler ultrasound can be used during the breeding soundness reproductive examination and before reproductive surgical interference in Barki rams.