Uterine twist in Nellore cow: case report

Abstract

Uterine torsion is the rotational movement of the uterus about its longitudinal axis, being more frequent in the bovine species than in any other. As reproductive performance directly reflects the reproductive rates of a herd, distocias are the targets of studies, since they result in economic losses for the producer. Uterine torsion results in dystocia and its etiopathogenesis is still not well understood, but are among the risk factors: excessive fetal movement in the early stages of delivery, fetal excess weight, deeper abdomen in some races, age and number of deliveries, causing flaccidity of the muscles and uterine ligaments. The diagnosis is based on obstetric examination, vaginal and / or transrectal palpation. The prognosis depends on the degree of rotation, time of evolution, and sequelae on the uterus and fetus. Usually the veterinary intervention is necessary, being able to be corrected only with obstetrical maneuvers and in more serious cases it needs cesarean section. The present study aims to describe the case of a Nellore cow approximately 2 ½ years old, referred to the Uberaba Veterinary Hospital, in labor and uterine twist. After the transvaginal palpation and the infeasibility of success only with obstetric maneuvers the animal was submitted to cesarean section. Several cases of uterine torsion in cattle are described in European breeds, but little is known about this type of disease in Nellore cattle.