Clinical case: Unilateral en bloc ovariocornuectomy as a treatment for uterine torsion in a bitch

Abstract

Uterine torsion is an uncommon, but life-threatening condition in the bitch and is routinely treated by ovariohysterectomy that means the end of breeding life. This report describes unilateral en bloc ovariocornuectomy as a successful treatment for uterine torsion in a heavily pregnant bitch by preserving the fertility including long term follow-up. A torsion-induced unilateral uterine necrosis was observed at laparatomy. At surgery two dead fetuses were retrieved by unilateral en bloc ovariocornuectomy. One week postoperatively, the bitch had fully recovered without problem. In the following breeding periods the bitch gave birth twice to two and three healthy puppies, respectively. Bitches with dystocia due to torsion of one uterine horn complicated with necrosis may survive if immediate unilateral en bloc ovariocornuectomy is performed while breeding ability of the bitch is preserved.