17/01/2023
Retained Fetal Membranes Retention of fetal membranes usually is defined as failure to expel fetal membranes within 24 hours after parturition; most field veterinarians however, agree that if retention is above 12 hours, it must be considered as pathologic. The incidence is increased by abortion, dystocia, hypocalcemia, twin birth, and high environmental temperature, advancing age of the cow, premature birth or induction of parturition, placentitis, ducts infection and nutritional disturbances. RFM may be attributed to the difference in nutritional status and management factors. Uterine paresis, stress, late or premature birth, twinning, infections, seasonal and hormonal disorders, immune-suppression, vitamin and mineral deficiencies have been identified as causes of RFM. Treatment and Prevention Management Non-drug treatment Untreated cows expel the membranes in 2-11 days. Daily gentle traction of the membrane is recommended to see if detachment has occurred. Drug treatment Intrauterine antimicrobials (see Metritis and endometritis); however, the cost of treatment and milk withhold time should be considered. If systemic signs are observed, treat with systemic antimicrobials (See page ). Precautions: Manual removal of the retained membranes is no longer recommended and is potentially harmful. Trimming of excess tissue is permissible; however, it is not accepted by owners & gross contamination of the ge***al tract may occur.
Dr Kedir Yusuf.
