Topic:Caesarean Section
A caesarean section in horses is a surgical procedure performed to deliver a foal when natural delivery is not possible or poses significant risk to the mare or foal. This procedure involves making an incision in the mare's abdomen and uterus to extract the foal. It is typically considered in cases of dystocia, where the foal is improperly positioned or too large, or when there are complications such as uterine torsion or pelvic fractures. The procedure requires general anesthesia and is performed in a sterile surgical environment to minimize infection risks. Post-operative care is critical for the recovery of both the mare and the foal. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the indications, techniques, outcomes, and post-operative management associated with caesarean sections in horses.
Obstetrician’s view of the physiology of equine parturition and dystocia. The author reviews 40 years of clinical experience including more than 1000 cases of dystocia in mares of different breeds. The high incidence of stillbirth and perinatal mortality of the foal, severe lesions of the genital tract developing during foaling and in the early post partum period are discussed and suggestions made for their prevention and treatment. The advantages of partial embryotomy to avoid unnecessary caesarean sections are emphasised. Special attention is given to the causes of and approach to cases of prolonged gestation; to dystocia caused by retroversion of preparturient to...
The correction of uterine torsion in a mare by caesarean section. A 9-year-old mare exhibiting signs of colic late in pregnancy was presented. Uterine torsion was diagnosed and corrected by caesarean section. A live foal was delivered and the mare survived the surgical interference.
Calcium metabolism in newborn animals: the interrelationship of calcium, magnesium, and inorganic phosphorus in newborn rats, foals, lambs, and calves. The plasma concentrations of calcium, inorganic phosphorus, and magnesium were studied during the early postnatal period in a rodent (rats), in ruminants (lambs and calves), and in foals. Decreases in plasma calcium after birth were observed only in newborn rats and foals. In rats the postnatal fall in plasma calcium level was already evident 1 hr after cesarean section (9.20 mg/100 ml) as opposed to 11.90 mg/100 ml in utero) and reached a nadir within 6 hr (-4.05 mg/100 ml). Newborn foals showed a small decrease in plasma calcium (-0.73/100 ml) 48 hr after birth. In the four species plasma in...