Surgical Intervention for Dystocia in a Mehsana Buffalo in Chhattisgarh
Abstract
The present case involved a 6-year-old Mehsana buffalo presented in Chitapadariya village, Jaijaipur block, Sakti district of Chhattisgarh, with a history of prolonged second stage of labor lasting more than 12 hours, with rupture of the water bag 6 hours prior to examination. The animal was restrained in left lateral recumbency, sedated with low-dose xylazine (0.05 mg/kg IM), and administered epidural anesthesia with 2% lignocaine. A ventrolateral approach was adopted. The uterus was sutured with Vicryl No. 2 in an inverting suture pattern before being replaced into the abdominal cavity after thorough lavage with normal saline and metronidazole solution. Muscle and peritoneal layers were closed with Vicryl No. 2 in a lockstitch pattern, and the skin with Silk No. 2 in a simple interrupted pattern. Postoperative care included administration of Intacef-Tazo (10 mg/kg IM for 7 days), meloxicam (0.5 mg/kg for 5 days), and Tribivet (15 ml IM for 5 days). The surgical site was cleaned daily with povidone-iodine, and skin sutures were removed after 10 days. The buffalo recovered uneventfully with no postoperative complications.
Keywords
Dystocia
Cesarean section
Field surgery
Mehsana Buffalo
Chhattisgarh.
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Introduction
n buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), dystocia occurs more frequently than in cattle, primarily due to factors like a narrow pelvic canal, weak uterine contractions, oversized fetuses, abnormal fetal presentations, and various management shortcomings. The condition is observed more often in first-calving heifers than in multiparous buffaloes. The occurrence of dystocia is generally higher in buffaloes compared to other domestic animals [1]. The causes of dystocia are broadly categorized into maternal and fetal factors. In buffaloes, maternal dystocia has been reported to occur more frequently [2], although some studies have indicated a greater prevalence of fetal dystocia in this species [3]. A cesarean section is considered a suitable option in cases of dystocia when delivery of the calf through fetal manipulation and extraction is not possible. In bovines, eight surgical approaches are available for performing a cesarean section: standing left paralumbar celiotomy, standing right paralumbar celiotomy, recumbent left paralumbar celiotomy, recumbent right paralumbar celiotomy, recumbent ventral midline celiotomy, recumbent ventral paramedian celiotomy, ventrolateral celiotomy, and standing left oblique celiotomy [4].
The Mehsana buffalo is an important dairy breed in India, and dystocia in this breed can result in significant economic losses if not managed promptly. This case report describes the successful management of dystocia in a Mehsana buffalo via cesarean section under field conditions.
Conclusion
Dystocia in buffaloes is a critical condition requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention. When vaginal delivery is not feasible, cesarean section is an effective life-saving procedure. In the present case, the buffalo recovered uneventfully with no postoperative complications. Successful outcomes depend on proper surgical technique, aseptic management, and adequate postoperative care, which collectively ensure recovery and improved reproductive performance. Field veterinarians should be trained in basic cesarean section techniques, as timely surgical intervention can save both the dam and calf.
References
[1] Purohit, G. N., Barolia, Y., Shekhar, C., & Kumar, P. (2011). Maternal dystocia in cows and buffaloes: A review. Open Journal of Animal Sciences, 1(2), 41–53. https://doi.org/10.4236/ojas.2011.12006
[2] Roberts, S. J. (1986). Diseases and accidents during the gestation period. In S. J. Roberts (Ed.), Veterinary obstetrics and genital diseases (Theriogenology) (pp. 230–233). Woodstock, VT.
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