In the equine world, the loss of a cherished broodmare doesn’t necessarily mean the end of her genetic legacy. Right after the mares’ death, the processing of the ovaries to recover oocytes is still possible. The ovaries are surgically removed, carefully packaged, and transported, maintaining a specific temperature to ensure the viability of oocytes. At the Genetech reproductive laboratory, the oocytes are meticulously extracted by aspiration or curettage and can be fertilized in vitro (ICSI). 

Upon the extraction of a mare’s ovaries, they should be immediately secured in a plastic bag, and submerged in a saline solution if available. It’s crucial to AVOID REFRIGERATION.

– For short transports under 2 hours, maintain the ovaries near the mare’s natural body warmth, between 90-98°F (32-37°C). This is achievable by nestling them in a styrofoam box with a warm saline bag at 37°C for thermal stability.

– For transit durations between 2 to 8 hours, cool the ovaries to room temperature (around 71°F/22°C), using an insulated styrofoam container with packs at room temperature for shipping.

– For extended transports exceeding 8 hours, the ovaries should be kept cool, but not below 54°F (12°C). A styrofoam box equipped with one cooled pack is ideal, or a styrofoam box with a frozen pack adequately insulated and far from the ovaries, ensuring they remain at a stable temperature conducive to their preservation. Do not place iced or cooled packs in close contact with the ovaries.

Genetech team is ready to answer any question about post-mortem ovary processing, please contact us for further instructions.