Elective cesarean section in mares: eight cases (1980-1989)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Equine Surgery
• Reproductive Science

Background:

• Dystocia and pelvic canal obstruction pose risks to mares and foals.
• Previous foal loss due to dystocia highlights the need for intervention.
• Cervical adhesions can impede fetal passage, necessitating surgical options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of elective cesarean section in mares with pelvic canal obstruction.
• To assess outcomes for both mares and foals following the procedure.
• To determine the reproductive success of mares after undergoing elective cesarean section.

Main Methods:

• Eight elective cesarean sections were performed on five mares between 1980 and 1989.
• Procedures were conducted prior to the onset of labor, with readiness assessed by mammary development and colostrum presence.
• Ventral midline celiotomy was the surgical approach used.

Main Results:

• Eight viable foals were delivered; one foal succumbed to post-operative complications (bacterial pneumonia and septicemia).
• All mares survived the surgery, with uncomplicated wound healing.
• Retained fetal membranes occurred in some mares but did not lead to systemic complications.
• Three mares were successfully rebred, with one mare producing three foals and another producing two foals via subsequent elective cesarean sections.

Conclusions:

• Elective cesarean section is a viable surgical option for mares with pelvic canal obstruction.
• The procedure demonstrates a favorable safety profile for mares and produces viable foals.
• Mares can achieve successful future pregnancies and deliveries after elective cesarean section.