Anaesthetic management of a bovine for ventral midline coeliotomy approach to hysterotomy

Abstract

An eight-year-old, multiparous Chianina cow presented for the removal of a term, emphysematous calf following a dystocia. Delivery of the calf trans-vaginally intact or piecemeal by fetotomy was impossible due to the partially closed cervix. A midline coeliotomy approach to hysterotomy under general anaesthesia was elected in order to reduce peritoneal spillage of uterine content. This case report aims to discuss the peri-anaesthetic management of the cow, specifically the ventilation strategy, approach to premedication and analgesic protocol.