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Pregnant uterus of Alpine ibex, approximately 2/3 through gestation. (O=ovaries).
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Opened uterus with ibex fetus still enclosed in its amnion that is closely applied to its surface. Note the extension of the placenta to the right horn. The cervix is very thin.
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After the amnion is removed, the short cord becomes exposed and the extension of two blood vessels to the other uterine horn becomes apparent.
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Note the division of the two uterine horns and extension of placenta below this apparent division.
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Higher magnification of the concave ibex cotyledons.
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The cord insertion on the ibex fetus is seen at left.
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Following the removal of the ibex fetus, the distribution of cotyledons all over the uterus becomes apparent.
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Traction on the cotyledons, in an attempt at dislodging them from the caruncle, disrupts the attachment irregularly. Indeed, it was very difficult to remove the cotyledons because of the immature state.
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Pregnant uterus with twins, of Markhor.
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Markhor uterus opened with immature twins in their amnions and the huge unopened allantoic sacs.
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Fetuses of Markhor exposed: short, straight umbilical cords, concave cotyledons and large allantoic sac.
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One complete ibex cotyledon attached to the uterus below. It looks as though the cotyledon was on a stalk. Note the abundant maternal blood supply in the endometrium below the cotyledon. The expansion of the endometrial surface (blue line) is seen on both convex sides of the cotyledon.
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Tur cotyledon with edematous endometrium that detaches the myometrium. At the arrows the endometrial surface epithelium covers the cotyledon.
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