Evaluation of epididymal sperm by the cannulation technique and the effects of in vivo storage in Angus bulls.

Abstract

Twelve Angus Bulls, 2 and 3 years old, were utilized in pairs in six consecutive trials to evaluate the morphology and output of epididymal sperm collected via a unilateral indwelling cannula in the vas deferens and to determine the effects of in vivo storage on epididymal sperm. Ten of the 12 cannulations were considered successful with an average cannula patency length of 66 days. Post-surgical swelling was experienced for approximately 10 days by most bulls which had a deleterious effect on the morphology of the sperm obtained via the cannula for 30 to 40 days. After the sperm recovery period, the morphology of the epididymal sperm was quite similar to the ejaculate sperm. Mean daily volume, concentration per milliliter and daily output of epididymal sperm (via unilateral cannulae) for eight bulls during 358 days were 0.27 ml, 3.81 × 109 and 1.15 × 109, respectively. In vivo storage of epididymal sperm caused a significant increase in abnormal sperm tails and a possible resorption of sperm by the epididymis.