Dropsy of Fetal Membranes Combined with Hydrocephalus in a Jersey Crossbred Heifer

Background: A Jersey Cross bred heifer (3 years) was presented to Large Animal Obstetrical Unit of Veterinary College and Research Institute, Orathanadu with a bilaterally distended abdomen suffering from dystocia. The present work was aimed to study the diagnosis and effect of therapeutic intervention for dropsy of fetal membranes and fetus. Methods: The animal was observed for general examination and subjected to clinical investigation. Vaginal examination revealed patent vaginal passage with dilated cervix. Fetal head could be palpable on further deep vaginal examination. In addition, a uterine tear was also palpable on the lateral side of the birth canal at 5’ O” clock position.
Result: Based on the clinical observations, the case was diagnosed as dystocia due to dropsy of fetal membranes with uterine tear. The animal was restrained and stabilized with 3 L of Inj. Normal saline intravenously. Under paravertebral nerve block cesarean section was performed and a dead male fetus with hydrocephalus was removed. Approximately about 280 L of mixed fetal fluids were drained. Postoperatively the animal was treated for seven days and the animal had uneventful recovery after 2 weeks of suture removal.
