Caesarean section in a cow with dystocia due to foetal oversize and lateral deviation of the foetal head following artificial insemination: A case report

Abstract

Dystocia is a common obstetric emergency in cattle, often associated with foetal oversize, malpresentation, or foetopelvic disproportion. Caesarean section (CS) remains a lifesaving surgical intervention when vaginal delivery is impossible. This report describes a case of dystocia in a cow with a history of artificial insemination, presenting with protrusion of the foetal limbs and failure of vaginal delivery despite assisted traction. Manual manipulation and traction, including mechanical assistance, were unsuccessful. A CS was therefore performed. The foetus was delivered dead, and intraoperative uterine tearing occurred during extraction. Postoperatively, the cow developed transient right forelimb paralysis, which resolved with supportive therapy. The cow recovered uneventfully and was discharged after a two-week stay.