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Vertebral fractures in newborn calves
J S Agerholm1, A Basse, J Arnbjerg
1Department of Pathology and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Laboratory, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Vertebral fractures occurred in 7.0% of necropsied newborn calves, primarily in Danish Holstein-Friesian (SDM) and Red Danish Dairy (RDM) breeds. These fractures, often epiphysiolysis at T13, were linked to manual traction during birth in heifers.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Bovine Health
Background:
- Vertebral fractures in newborn calves are a potential welfare and economic concern in dairy farming.
- Understanding the incidence and risk factors is crucial for preventing calf mortality and morbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of vertebral fractures in newborn calves from specific dairy breeds.
- To identify potential associations between vertebral fractures and factors such as breed, sex, and calving assistance.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving necropsy of newborn calves.
- Data collection on breed, sex, calving history, and assistance methods.
- Examination of fracture incidence and location during necropsy.
Main Results:
- Vertebral fractures were identified in 7.0% of necropsied calves.
- Fractures were prevalent in Danish Holstein-Friesian (SDM) and Red Danish Dairy (RDM) breeds, but not in Jersey or beef breeds.
- All identified fractures were simple epiphysiolysis, predominantly in the thoraco-lumbar region (T13 posterior epiphysis), and associated with manual traction in heifers.
Conclusions:
- Vertebral fractures are a notable finding in specific dairy calf breeds, particularly when manual traction is applied during birth.
- The posterior epiphysis of T13 is a common site for these fractures, suggesting a mechanism related to birth trauma.
- Further research into calving management practices may help mitigate fracture incidence.