Dystocia Due to Postural Defect of Fetus in a Free Ranging Deer - A Case Report

Abstract

This case report presents a successful obstetrical intervention in a case of dystocia caused by a fetal postural defect in a free-ranging deer. The case was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, DUVASU Mathura. On physical examination, head and forelimbs of the fetus were visible outside the vulva. Per vaginal examination of the deer revealed one hind limb of the fetus being flexed into the birth canal and crossing over the neck, leading to obstruction at the pelvic brim by the hock joint. To correct the postural defect of hindlimb, traction was applied at the fetlock joint of hind limb to resolve the obstruction caused by hock joint at level of pelvic brim. Lubrication of the birth canal with liquid paraffin facilitated fetal delivery by reducing friction. Controlled traction resulted in the successful extraction of a dead female fetus per-vaginally. Post-delivery, the deer was given appropriate medicinal treatment and management, resulting in a healthy recovery.