Sow Mammary Gland - Anatomy & Physiology
Revision as of 12:18, 8 July 2008 by Lwilkie (talk | contribs) (New page: == General Structure == * Usually '''14 mammary complexes''' * Arranged in two rows on the ventral side of the thorax and abdomen. ** In most animals, left and right complexes not at the...)
General Structure
- Usually 14 mammary complexes
- Arranged in two rows on the ventral side of the thorax and abdomen.
- In most animals, left and right complexes not at the same transverse plane - arranged alternating.
- Facilitates access of piglets when the sow is lying on her side.
- In most animals, left and right complexes not at the same transverse plane - arranged alternating.
- Each complex consists of two or three mammary units.
- Each unit opens with a separate orifice at the tip of the teat in a shallow depression.
Blood Supply
- Thoracic mammary complexes receive additional blood supply from mammary branches of the lateral thoracic artery.