Managing Uterine Prolapse in Swine: A Veterinary Guide

Uterine prolapse in sows is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention. The following outlines the standard management approach:

1. Immediate Stabilization

• Isolate the sow in a clean, quiet, well-bedded pen to reduce stress and contamination.
• Cleanse the prolapsed tissue gently with warm saline or dilute antiseptic (e.g., povidone-iodine 0.1%). Avoid harsh disinfectants.
• Prevent desiccation: Keep tissue moist with sterile lubricant or saline-soaked gauze.

2. Repositioning (Reduction)

• Administer epidural or local anesthesia (lidocaine) to reduce straining.
• With gloved, lubricated hands, gently elevate the uterus and guide it back through the vulva. Use the fist to push from the vaginal floor upward.
• If the cervix is closed, gentle digital dilation may be needed.

3. Retention & Support

• Buhner suture (vulvar closure) or horizontal mattress sutures across the vulvar lips to prevent re-prolapse. Leave for 5–7 days.
• Oxytocin (20–30 IU IM) post-reduction to promote uterine involution.

4. Medical Therapy

• Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum (e.g., ceftiofur, penicillin) for 3–5 days to prevent metritis/sepsis.
• NSAIDs: Flunixin meglumine for pain/inflammation.
• Calcium/energy support if hypocalcemic or ketotic.

5. Prevention

• Avoid overfeeding late gestation; maintain optimal body condition.
• Ensure adequate exercise and non-slip flooring.
• Monitor closely periparturient, especially older, high-parity sows.

Key Takeaway

Rapid, clean reduction with vulvar retention sutures, antibiotics, and analgesia offers the best prognosis. Always involve a veterinarian.