DYSTOCIA 307 



by vaginal palpation. In palpating note the condition of the 

 pelvic canal, whether constricted, tumors present, etc. 



Diagnosis. If the labor pains are normal and no impedi- 

 ment to the passage of the young through the pelvic canal is 

 apparent, and the animal is in good physical condition, we 

 should allow more time to elapse before assuming it to be a 

 case of dystocia. However, if the animal is weak, the general 

 condition disturbed, labor pains absent, etc., we are justified 

 in diagnosing dystocia. 



Prognosis. Favorable in most cases. Will depend upon 

 (a) the condition of the animal, (6) the length of time in 

 labor, and (c) the condition of the fetus and membranes. 



Treatment. A thorough examination of the patient should 

 be made at once to determine the proper treatment to use. 

 There are three lines of treatment recommended in dystocia. 



Medical. This is indicated in cases when there is no 

 apparent impediment to the passage of the fetus, and when 

 the labor pains are weak and insufficient. Extract of ergot 

 (0.5-2.0) or pituitrin (3.0-10.0) depending on the size of the 

 animal may be given. These doses may be repeated in a few 

 hours if necessary. Pituitrin is being used quite successfully 

 in such cases. 



Forced Extraction of the Fetus. Examination is made of 

 the condition of the birth canal and the position of the fetus 

 noted. Various forms of instruments have been recom- 

 mended for this work. Perhaps the most satisfactory ones 

 are the smallest forceps, a rather blunt vulsellum forceps, 

 and a wire snare. These instruments should be thoroughly 

 disinfected, and the vagina washed with an antiseptic and 

 lubricant solution (creolin, 2 per cent.; lysol, 1 per cent.). 

 The method of manipulation will depend upon the position, 

 presentation, and condition of the fetus. All manipulating 

 with the instruments should be done carefully to avoid injur- 

 ing the vaginal mucosa. An assistant who exerts pressure 

 on the abdominal walls in a backward direction will often 

 help in keeping the fetus in position until the instrument is 

 firmly attached. Gentle traction should be used. This 

 method when done carefully will often overcome the diffi- 

 cult v. 



