Surgical and nonsurgical correction of uterine torsion in New World camelids: 20 cases (1990-1996)

Abstract

Objective: To report clinical findings for New World comelids with uterine torsion and to compare results of 3 methods of correction.

Design: Retrospective case series.

Animals: 11 llamas and 3 alpacas with 20 uterine torsions.

Procedure: Information concerning history, clinical signs, management, and postpartum complications was retrieved from medical records. Information concerning subsequent reproductive performance was obtained by telephone interview of owners.

Results: Uterine torsion was corrected by celiotomy (n = 7); transvaginal manipulation (5), or rolling the dam (8). Direction of 19 of 20 torsions was clockwise when viewed from the rear. Retention of fetal membranes was reported for 5 camelids that underwent celiotomy, but was not reported in camelids after nonsurgical correction. The uterus prolapsed in 1 llama that underwent celiotomy and in another that underwent the rolling technique. Although 2 camelids that underwent celiotomy subsequently failed to conceive, all camelids treated by nonsurgical techniques conceived.

Clinical implications: Uterine torsion in camelids may be diagnosed by methods similar to those used in cattle. Surgical and nonsurgical methods can be used to correct torsion, and postpartum complications are rare when torsion is corrected by a nonsurgical method.