Review on a cesarean section in the cow: Its incision approaches, relative advantage, and disadvantages

Abstract

Dystocia is an abnormal and difficult birth in which the first or the second stage of labour is markedly prolonged and subsequently found impossible for the dam to deliver without artificial aid. In cattle, it can be relieved by different obstetric methods, including the cesarean operation and fetotomy. Caesarean section is the extraction of the fetus or foeti from the dam, through a surgical opening in the abdominal wall and the uterus. This surgical method can be performed by about eight alternative surgical approaches in bovines with its advantages and disadvantages. However, the selection is dependent on many factors like the type of dystocia, the cows and environmental conditions, the availability of assistants, and the surgeon's preference. For cows, most surgeons use a standing left paralumbar celiotomy. However, the left oblique approach is also preferable under most circumstances because the uterus is readily exteriorized, limiting peritoneal cavity contamination. Besides, alternative approaches are also available that will further limit the potential for contamination but many junior surgeons perform the left paralumbar celiotomy using the same approach each time due to their comfort with one specific approach or lack of familiarity with other available options. Therefore, the objective of this review is to provide basic insights and highlight the cesarean section incision approaches with their relative advantages and disadvantages in cows.

Schistosomus reflexus dystocia in a crossbred dairy cow

“…During surgery, large laparotomic and uterine incisions were made for easy expulsion of the fetus without rupturing or tearing internal muscles and structures. The used suture materials and suture patterns are in arrangement with those in different studies 27,28 . Preoperative fluid therapy was considered to check dehydration and hypovolemia.…”

“…The used suture materials and suture patterns are in arrangement with those in different studies. 27 , 28 Preoperative fluid therapy was considered to check dehydration and hypovolemia. Following surgery, parenteral dextrose saline was used to support the animal with energy and prevent hypoglycemia.…”