Management of Post- Partum Uterine Prolapse in a 4 – Year - Old Uda Cross Breed Ewe

Abstract

A four-year-old crossbred Uda ewe weighing 40 kg was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Bayero University, with a uterine mass protruding through the vulva following unattended parturition. The history revealed prolonged straining, although the lamb was delivered alive and active. Clinical examination revealed a dark red to purple, cylindrical uterine mass measuring approximately 20–30 cm, with visible caruncles. Laboratory findings indicated reduced packed cell volume (29%), haemoglobin concentration (8.9 g/dL), and serum calcium concentration (1.9 mmol/L), alongside an elevated white blood cell count (12.7 × 10⁹/L). Management involved thorough cleaning of the prolapsed uterus, application of sugar granules to reduce swelling, rinsing with normal saline, and disinfection with diluted chlorhexidine. Caudal epidural anaesthesia was achieved using 2% lignocaine hydrochloride to facilitate uterine replacement and prevent straining. Following manual replacement, a vulvar purse-string suture was applied to prevent recurrence. Supportive treatment included calcium borogluconate, oxytocin, oxytetracycline, iron dextran, and multivitamins. The ewe showed progressive improvement in vital parameters, and the suture was removed on the fifth day, with the uterus remaining in its normal anatomical position. No complications, including metritis or endometritis, were observed. This case demonstrates the importance of prompt clinical intervention, appropriate anaesthesia, careful uterine replacement, and supportive therapy in the successful management of postpartum uterine prolapse in ewes.