Bovine Obstetrics Flashcards
What is an episiotomy?
making small incisions in the vulva at the 10 and 2 positions
When is an episiotomy indicated?
when the fetus can fit through the pelvic inlet, but the vulva is too tight
What are the disadvantages associated with a C-section? (in respect to the cow)
- more expensive and traumatic
- increased recovery time
- potential impact on future fertility
- requires assistance
What are the advantages associated with a fetotomy? (in respect to the cow)
- reduced trauma and expense
- shorter recovery time and less aftercare
- less impact on future fertility and milk production
What are the indications for performing a fetotomy?
- dead fetus
- uncorrectable fetal malposition
- delivery by traction not working
- fetomaternal disproportion
- certain fetal monsters/ankylosis
- incomplete cervical dilation
What are the requirements for a fetotomy?
- adequate space between uterine wall and fetus
- removal of parts with easy traction
- lubricant pumped into uterus
- epidural
- assistance
What fetotomy cuts are done for a calf in cranial presentation?
- decapitation or cervical amputation
- amputation of forelimbs
- detruncation
- division of the pelvis
What is the aftercare for a fetotomy?
- lavage uterus
- systemic antibiotics
- anti-inflammatories
- IV or oral calcium
- IV fluids
- ecbolics
What are the main 5 reasons to perform a C-section?
- fetal oversize
- incomplete cervical dilation or cervical closure on dead fetus
- irreducible uterine torsion
- fetal deformity
- errors of fetal presentation
What are the advantages of a ventral midline/paramedian approach for C-section?
- best surgical exposure
- least abdominal contamination
- best cosmetic effect
What are the disadvantages of a ventral midline/paramedian approach for C-section?
- restraint
- failure of suture line is catastrophic
- dorsal recumbency causes respiratory compromise
What are the advantages of a standing flank approach for C-section?
- restraint easy for a healthy animal
- closure simplified
- surgeon comfort
What are the disadvantages of a standing flank approach for C-section?
- less exposure
- peritoneal contamination
- standing animals can go down
How is the uterine wall closed?
- 1 or 2 layers
- inverting pattern (Urtrecht, Cushing, Lembert)
- # 1 or #2 absorbable suture
- do not include placenta
- bury the knot
Describe a Grade 1 vaginal prolapse
- floor of vagina protrudes intermittently
- usually when lying down, but goes back once standing
