Retrospective Study of 73 Mares With Periparturient Hemorrhage (1998-2005)

Mares of any age and parity are susceptible to periparturient hemorrhage (PPH). Affected mares may show clinical signs of abdominal pain and hypovolemic shock within 48 h of foaling. Treatment is associated with a good prognosis for survival. Mares can achieve parity after PPH.

1. Introduction

Reproductive tract hemorrhage associated with pregnancy or parturition is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in broodmares.

2. Materials and Methods

Medical records of mares with periparturient hemorrhage (PPH) treated at Hagyard-Davidson-McGee Equine Hospital (1998 - 2005) were reviewed. The following information was collected for each case: age, breed, parity, length of hospitalization, presenting complaint, parity, difficulty with parturition, physical exam findings, and clinicopathologic parameters. Information regarding the findings of ultrasound, abdominocentesis, therapeutic management, survival, complications, and future parity was recorded. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between variables and outcome.

3. Results

Seventy-three mares met criteria for inclusion in the study. Most mares were multiparous; additionally, most were admitted within 48 h of parturition and showed signs of abdominal pain and hypovolemic shock. Treatment aimed at restoring perfusion, enhancing coagulation, and providing analgesia was associated with a favorable outcome. Survival rate for affected mares was 84%. Complications were common. Factors associated with non-survival included pre-partum hemorrhage. Some mares were able to achieve parity after treatment for PPH.

4. Discussion

Treatment of mares with PPH is associated with a good prognosis for survival. Some mares regain fertility after an episode of PPH.