16. Retained Fetal Membranes in the Broodmare

What is it called when there is a lack of placental expulsion by 3

hours postpartum?

Retained placenta

What is the most common postpartum problem (2-10%)?

Retained placenta

Why is a retained placenta a medical emergency? (4)

lead to septicemia, metritis, laminitis and death

T/F A retained placenta should be treated aggressively

True

Placental retention is more likely to occur in the tip of the

____-____- uterine horn

non-gravid

Uterine contractions from tip of horn, progressing to cervix,

____ placental tissue

everts

What is the type of placentation seen in the horse?

diffuse

What type of placentation is seen in the rumanints?

Cotyledonary

What is the type of placentation in Zonary?

Dog and Cat

It is ______ to examine the placental and should be a part of _____ exam

ESSENTIAL, every

What membrane looks like red velvet?

chorionic surface

What are some clinical signs of a retained placenta?

- Any placental tissue hanging from vulva past 3 hours

- Pyrexia, tachycardia, vulvar discharge, +/-

lethargy, anorexia, increased digital pulses

What is the first clinical sign to happen 2-4 days after birth that would tell you that the mare has a retained placenta?

pyrexia

What are the THREE most common complications from retained placenta?

metritis, laminitis, septicemia

T/F Longer the placenta remains, greater the risk of complications

True

Metritis and Laminitis are usually severe sequelae in what breed of horses?

Draft horses

What are THREE things that need to happen in EVERY case of retained placenta?

◼ *Oxytocin*

◼ Burn's Technique OR uterine lavage

◼ Tetanus coverage

What approach would be smart if fresh?

Umbilical distension (Zeddam) technique

What are some treatments that can be done for the retained placenta that is at the discretion of DVM? ((If >6 hrs, already febrile, horse of high value, etc.)

◼ NSAIDs

◼ Antibiotics

◼ Pentoxyphylline

What is the MOA of Pentoxyphylline?

improves blood flow/microcirculation.