Attempted conversion of twin to singleton pregnancy in two mares with associated changes in plasma oestrone sulphate concentrations

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Abstract
The removal of one of twin embryos was attempted by infusion of 24% (w/v) saline into the gestation sac in 2 mares by laparotomy. The treatment was successful in one mare (Case 1) and the untreated embryo remained viable. However, neither foetus survived in the second mare (Case 2). Plasma oestrone sulphate (E1S) concentrations fell immediately after treatment in both mares but recovered to approximately 50% of pretreatment levels in Case 1. In Case 2 plasma E1S concentrations declined steadily and were < 1 ng/ml within 6 days of treatment. These preliminary results suggest that the method may be useful for selective removal of one of twin embryos in mares. Furthermore, plasma ES concentrations may be a useful indicator of embryonic viability.