Near-Term Extrauterine Pregnancy Secondary To Uterine Rupture In A Mare.

Overview

• This research article presents a case study of a rare complication in a pregnant mare where the uterus ruptured before delivery, leading to the fetus moving into the abdominal cavity.
• The mare underwent successful surgery to remove the fetus and repair the uterus, highlighting the importance of quick diagnosis and treatment to save the mare and potentially preserve her ability to reproduce in the future.

Introduction to Uterine Rupture in Mares

• Uterine rupture is a serious and rare complication during equine pregnancy.
• Common causes include:
  • Dystocia (difficult birth)
  • Uterine torsion (twisting of the uterus)
  • Fetal manipulation (movement or interference)
  • Hydrops (excessive fluid accumulation in fetal membranes)
• Ruptures can occur in different parts of the uterus, but ruptures involving the ventral (front) portion of the uterine body are especially rare.

Case Description

• Patient: An 11-year-old Arabian mare at 350 days into gestation (near full term).
• Complication: The mare developed uterine torsion leading to a full-thickness tear in the ventral uterine body.
• Consequences:
  • The rupture caused the fetus to move freely into the mare’s peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.
  • Unfortunately, this resulted in fetal death.

Surgical Intervention

• The mare underwent a ventral midline laparotomy (surgical opening of the abdomen through the underside).
• During surgery:
  • The fetus was carefully removed from the abdominal cavity.
  • The uterine tear was repaired primarily to restore uterine integrity.
  • Adhesions (scar tissue) that might have formed were also managed to minimize complications.

Significance and Outcomes

• The case demonstrates:
  • The critical need for rapid diagnosis of uterine rupture to prevent severe complications such as colic (abdominal pain).
  • The feasibility of surgical repair in mares experiencing pre-partum uterine rupture, even with a fetus in the abdomen.
  • The potential to preserve reproductive function following such severe complications, which is important for breeding mares.
• Overall, timely surgical intervention contributed to a successful outcome despite the seriousness of the condition.