Cesarean Section
A cesarean section (or c-section), is an alternate form of delivering a foal. The mare is placed under general anesthesia and an incision is created through the mare’s abdomen in order to expose the mare’s uterus. A surgical incision is made through the mare’s uterus in order to deliver the foal. It is usually performed when vaginal delivery would put the mare or foals life or health at risk.
Dystocia
Dystocia is an abnormal or difficult foaling (labour). It is one of the true emergencies an equine practitioner may encounter. Prompt action increases the probability of survival of the foal and decreases the degree of trauma to the mare’s reproductive tract. To perform a controlled vaginal delivery, the mare is placed under general anesthesia and her hind legs are elevated in the air using a hoist. The delivery is under the complete control of the veterinarian, as the foal is delivered vaginally once all of the limbs and head are positioned properly. At our hospital, controlled vaginal delivery has reduced the need for a cesarean section delivery by 90%.