Foaling and post-foaling emergencies

Problems occurring at the time of foaling include fetomaternal disproportion, malpresentation and malposition of the fetus. These commonly require veterinary intervention and have been widely reviewed. Caudal tract trauma (perineal laceration, rectovaginal fistula, vaginal laceration with potential evisceration of caudal intestinal content) can result from expulsive efforts by the mare or injudicious manipulations. Retained placenta definitions vary, although usually expelled 30 min post-partum, it can be considered retained after 3 h. Treatment centres around promotion of coordinated expulsive efforts, treatment of potential bacterial sepsis and management of secondary complications (laminitis) ...