Understanding dystocia in the field: part 2

Abstract

The approach to resolution of dystocia must be promptly yet carefully planned. Once the cause of dystocia has been diagnosed, the time elapsed since allantochorionic rupture and foetal vitality status should be considered when deciding the next step. Communication with connections is key in enabling one to prioritise the outcome in favour of the foal, mare and/or future fertility. Clinicians should be pragmatic as opposed to dogmatic in their approach and willing to alter their strategy if attempts at resolution fail to achieve progress in a short period of time. Referral for caesarian section or fetotomy are options that should be considered at the start as opposed to once manual corrective efforts have failed.