Factors influencing complications during caesarean section on the standing cow

Abstract

Summary The complications occurring during Caesarean section are reviewed, and then an investigation of the factors influencing three important complications, namely recumbency of the animal, increased contractility of the uterus, and difficulties with exteriorization of the pregnant uterine horn, is described. Two epidemiological and statistical methods were used. The parity, the type of animal, the use of sedatives, and difficulties with the exteriorization of the pregnant horn had, with increasing significance, an independent influence on recumbency of the cow. Attempts to extract the calf was the only factor that significantly increased uterine contractility. The surgeon, the parity, the increased uterine contractility, the position of the calf, and the presence of adhesions were associated with increasing significance, with difficult exteriorization of the pregnant horn. It is very important to know the factors that influence the occurrence of complications during surgery, in order to take some precautions to minimize the complications after the operation.