Normal parturition and evaluation of the mare in dystocia

Fetotomy technique in the mare

“…The obvious goal is not only to deliver a live foal whenever possible, but also to preserve the life and fertility of the mare. Therefore, practitioners should remember that the duration of vaginal intervention should be kept to a minimum even if the fetus is dead (no limb withdrawal, no occular reflex, no swallowing reflex, no heart beat, no anal reflex) (Frazer et al 1999a).…”

“…Repeated vaginal entry and internal manoeuvres serve only to traumatise the birth canal and increase the level of bacterial contamination. Application of copious volumes of lubricant is essential, because the mare's genital tract is very sensitive to trauma and the uterus is easily ruptured (Vandeplassche et al 1972;Vandeplassche 1987Vandeplassche , 1993Hawkins 1988;Frazer et al 1999a).…”

“…A clean stomach tube and pump are used gently to instill the mixture into the uterine lumen as often as necessary during the procedure to keep the tract coated with lubricant ( Fig 2). If the uterus is contracted, the lubricant tends to induce some uterine relaxation and thereby create additional room between the uterus and fetus (Frazer et al 1999a). In countries where they are available, systemic spasmolytic agents (isoxsuprine; clenbuterol) relax the uterine smooth muscle and therefore provide more space for manipulations.…”

“…General anaesthesia provides excellent muscle relaxation; and hoisting of the hindquarters provides additional free space within the uterus such that the fetus may be repelled and obstetrical manipulations performed. It should be remembered, however, that prolonged intervention can generally be expected to result in severe trauma to the genital tract, even if performed by a skilful and experienced operator (Vandeplassche 1980(Vandeplassche , 1988(Vandeplassche , 1992(Vandeplassche , 1993Roberts 1986;Asbury 1987;Hawkins 1988;Youngquist 1988;Frazer 1997;Frazer et al 1999a).…”

“…If an attempt at correction is made, the malposture must first be converted into hock flexion. Anaesthetising the mare, hoisting the hindquarters, then instilling copious amounts of lubricant will eliminate straining and increase the abdominal space (Vandeplassche 1987;Frazer et al 1999a). Even if the hip flexion is corrected, the uterine body can still easily be ruptured at its dorsal aspect as the hock is then straightened.…”