Partial Fetotomy to Relieve Dystocia due to Bilateral Carpal Flexion of Fetus in a Primiparous Mare

A primiparous mare was presented to the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic with the history of full term gestation, off-fed and straining since morning on the day of presentation. On gross observation, the animal was in sternal recumbency with fetal head protruded out from the vulva. Per-vaginal examination revealed oedematous and dry birth canal impacted with dead fetus in anterior longitudinal presentation, dorso-sacral position and bilateral carpal/knee flexion, causing obstruction and dystocia. After restraining the mare and giving initial therapy, birth canal was lubricated with ample amount of liquid paraffin. Manual resolution of dystocia was first attempted with no improvement. Thereafter, it was decided to go for partial fetotomy with Thygesen's fetotome, and head along with neck was amputated. Amputation of both forelimbs was carried out at the level of carpal joint due to lack of space for mutation. Then, two point tractions were applied and female fetus was extracted out. Mare was put on intensive therapy and recovered uneventfully.