Fetal Dystocia 2. Dystocia Due to Faults of Presentation, Dystocia Due to Twins, Dystocia Due to Fetomaternal Disproportion

The aim of manipulative procedures in the monotocous species must always be to ensure that the fetus is in normal disposition before attempting delivery. Correction of defects of presentation, position, and posture can be achieved only by intrauterine manipulation of the fetus. Retropulsion of the fetus into the uterus is essential for repositioning it. After diagnosing the cause of dystocia and deciding on a plan of action, the obstetrician should consider whether the available facilities are appropriate, and whether the equipment is adequate to carry out the treatment successfully. In severe forms of dystocia, the veterinarian should always seek the assistance of a professional colleague and consider whether it might be appropriate to transport the animal to a place with hospital facilities, provided that the animal is in a fit state to travel. Obstetrical manipulation per vaginam should be performed as cleanly as possible. It is impossible to perform them aseptically because there will inevitably be some contamination.