Gestational success in a female dog following early repair of an inguinal gravid hysterocele

Abstract

Inguinal gravid hysterocele is a pregnancy disorder characterized by the presence of the uterus as the contents of an inguinal hernia. This condition often progresses to strangulation of the uterus and uterine vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the placenta and, consequently, fetal death. This case report details the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, surgical approach, and perinatal outcomes of a 4-year-old, 17 kg, multiparous American Bully bitch, presented 25 days post-artificial insemination for pregnancy confirmation. Clinical examination revealed bilateral, non-reducible, painless inguinal swellings. Ultrasonographic assessment identified two gestational vesicles within the right inguinal canal and a third in the abdominal cavity, consistent with a diagnosis of bilateral inguinal hernia and unilateral gravid hysterocele. Due to the potential for uterine incarceration and compromise of maternal-fetal viability, early surgical intervention was elected. The postoperative period was uneventful, with serial imaging and laboratory monitoring confirming adequate fetal development and maternal stability. An elective cesarean section was performed at term (60 days of gestation), resulting in the delivery of two viable neonates without congenital anomalies. This case report underscores the importance of early recognition and timely surgical intervention in inguinal gravid hysterocele to preserve maternal health and fetal viability. It also addresses the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges posed by low-prevalence obstetric conditions, emphasizing the need for rigorous prenatal monitoring, rapid and accurate clinical decision-making, and effective interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure favorable outcomes. Moreover, the systematic dissemination of such clinical experiences to the scientific community is essential for the ongoing development and refinement of evidence-based protocols for the management of obstetric emergencies in veterinary medicine.