Body wall tears during late pregnancy in mares: 13 cases (1995-2006).

This research paper discusses the management and outcomes for mares with body wall defects during late pregnancy, with the study finding that conservative management strategies can improve foal survival rates without compromising the survival of the mares.

Study Design and Methods

• The researchers conducted a retrospective case series, utilizing medical records from 13 mares with body wall defects during pregnancy.
• Data considered included the mares’ history, admission complaints, clinical findings, parity, type of body wall defect, concurrent diagnoses, and post-partum complications as well as the outcomes of both the mares and their foals.
• The type of clinical case management – whether conservative or interventional – was also noted.

Results of the Study

• Eight of the mares received conservative management, while five underwent interventional management.
• No significant difference was found in survival rates for mares based on type of management, type of body wall defect, or presence of hydrops (a condition characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the fetuses).
• However, foal survival rates were significantly better in mares managed conservatively than in those managed through intervention.
• Foal survival rates were also better in the absence of hydrops.

Conclusions and Implications

• The research concludes that foal survival can be enhanced in the event of body wall defects in mares during parturition through the use of conservative management strategies.
• These strategies, which avoid inducing birth or implementing an elective caesarean section, allow for natural parturition without compromising the survival of the mare.
• The study suggests that potentially, improved fetal readiness for birth may result in better survival rates for foals.