Uterine Culture/Cytology: Low Volume Lavage

Typically a double-guarded swab or a brush is used to obtain a sample for uterine culture or cytology; however, a low volume uterine lavage may be more diagnostic in situations where localized uterine infections are present. The goal is to have the lavage fluid distribute throughout the uterine lumen and therefore "sample" the entire uterus instead of one specific region as would occur with a traditional swab. This chapter discusses step by step procedure for uterine culture, and outlines the equipment and supplies needed for this purpose. It also discusses necessary condition to be followed while performing uterine culture in mares.