Caesarean Section in Sheep and GoatPrepared by:Angela Llauder Santos

Definition A process in which the fetus is surgically removed from the dam during parturition by making a large incision on

the abdomen. The name “caesarean” is probably derived from Julius Caesar.It is also known the Latin word ‘caedere’, means ‘to

cut’. The term‘section’, probably has its origin in the Latin verb secare/seco, meaning “to light, strike, or reach,” or “to

cut into, separate, divide, or part”.

Introduction

Because of the small size of ewes and docs relative to other farm animals, the veterinarian often cannot effectively perform vaginal manipulation of fetuses. ThereforeCesarean section is recommended if vaginal delivery isnot possible and the animal's value does not preclude thecost of this procedure.

Indications

Inadequate cervical dilation Abnormal pelvic bone conformation (shape) in the sheep and goat Rupture of the doe's abdominal musculature Improper uterine position or function Abnormalities of the uterus or vagina Abnormal calf position that is uncorrectable in vagina Fetal monsters Presence of a dead fetus.  Fetal oversize Fetal emphysema

Surgical Approaches For 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, --Standing left oblique celiotomy.

Selection of an approach should be based on the type of dystocia, the cow’s condition, the environmental conditions, the availability of assistance, and surgeon’s preference.

Pre-operative Preparations

Preparation of the Surgical set and washing of hand,

Preparation of the site,

– Clipping and shaving of the surgical area

– Apply betadine iodine on the site,

Preparation of the site,

– Clipping and shaving of the surgical area

Apply betadine iodine on the site,

Anaesthesia

Generally caesarean section in ewe is performed under the local infiltration anaesthesia using 2% lignocaine hydrochloride,

Local infiltration technique depends on the surgical site, epidural block is also used depend on the condition and the degree of straining.

Surgical Technique

placed the ewe or doe in left lateral recumbency with the front and rear legs restrained in extension with soft cotton ropes

Make a 15- to 25-cm skin incision near the center of the left paralumbar fossa. Depending on the size of the ewe the incision should start 5 cm ventral to the lateral processes of the lumbar vertebrae and continue in a slight ventrocranial direction to compensate for the bulging rumen and uterus.

The external and internal abdominal oblique muscles arc cut in the same plane as the skin incision. A small nick incision can be made through the transverse abdominal muscle and peritoneum. This entry can be extended by inserting fingers into the incision and pulling dorsally and ventrally to separate the muscle along the direction of its fibers.

The uterus is located and exteriorized. The clinician should be aware that the ovine uterus is more fragile than that of the doe or cow.

Sterile towels or laparotomy pads can be packed around the exposed uterus to decrease the chance ot abdominal contamination.

The uterus should be incised in a longitudinal plane over the greater curvature of the horn in a relatively avascular area.

The incision should be made long enough to guarantee easy removal of the fetus without risking uterine tears.– Separate incisions may be needed in the case of multiple fetuses. – Hold fetal legs and gently remove it.– Avoid intra-peritoneal contamination, – Hold the incised uterine edges,– Remove the fetal membranes gently if possible,– Remove the uterine fluid,

The incision should be closed with an inverting incision pattern (e.g., Utrecht pattern). In general a one-layer closure of the uterus is sufficient; however, the incision should be checked closely to ensure that a good seal has been obtained.

However, the incision should be checked closely to ensure that a good seal has been obtained. Generally closes the transverse abdominal wall and peritoneum with a simple continuous pattern using #1

absorbable suture. The internal and external abdominal oblique muscles may be closed together, after which the skin is closed A continuous or interrupted suture pattern may be use for the skin closure Monitor the patient until she recover

Post Operative Treatment And Care

Give a broad-spectrum antibiotic, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory drug, Oxytocin, 100 IU, Glucose 5%, Haemostatics if necessary, Daily dressing of a wound,