Retained Fetal Membranes

Retained Fetal Membranes



Basic Information image



Definition


Failure to expel all or part of the fetal membranes within 3 hours of delivery of a foal



Synonym(s)


Retained placenta, retained afterbirth



Epidemiology



Species, Age, Sex




• Intact female horses


• Breeding age


• Mares older than 15 years may have a higher incidence.



Genetics and Breed Predisposition




• The incidence is 2% to 10%. The incidence is reportedly lower in miniature mares (1.6%) and higher in Friesian mares (54%).


• A positive correlation between the incidence of retained fetal membranes (RFMs) and the inbreeding coefficient of the foal has been reported in Friesian mares.



Risk Factors




• Dystocia, fetotomy, cesarean section


• Abortion


• Consumption of endophyte-infected tall fescue (placental edema)


• Hydrops


• Placentitis


• Endometritis


• Overuse of large doses of oxytocin immediately postpartum


• Hypocalcemia (draft horses)


• Uterine tear


• Previous history of RFM


• Systemic infections or debilitating conditions



Associated Conditions and Disorders




• Metabolic disorders


• Eclampsia



Clinical Presentation



Disease Forms/Subtypes


Retention can be complete or partial if only a portion of the fetal membranes remain in the uterus.



History, Chief Complaint




• History of parturition 3 hours before presentation.


• Presence of fetal membranes protruding from the vulva.


• Tear or missing portion of the chorioallantois.


• Mares with unnoticed partial retention may present with signs of toxic metritis.



Physical Exam Findings




• Presence of fetal membranes protruding from the vulva. The degree of protrusion can vary.


• RFMs may be present without being externally visible if they remain entirely within the uterine cavity or if only a portion of chorioallantois is retained.


• Straining and mild colic associated with uterine contractions are infrequently present.


• Metritis, endotoxemia, septicemia, or laminitis may occur as a complication of RFMs (see “Toxic Metritis” in this section).

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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Retained Fetal Membranes

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