Hysterotomy

Euthanasis sow captive bolt

In practical terms in commercial farms, a sow in the farrowing house who needs a caesarian section, euthanasia of the sow using a captive bolt or life round killing the sow and rolling the sow onto her back is generally the best option.   It is not necessary to panic, the piglets will be easily resuscitated within 4-5 minutes of the euthanasia of the sow.    Make a large midline incision from the xyphoid process to the pelvis, using a large sharp post-mortem knife.   Carefully, cut into the abdomen and expose the uterus. Using scissors, cut the uterus over piglets and remove, pass to an assistant who will be responsible for resuscitation.

Hysterectomy derived piglets

It is possible to utilize this technique to obtain hysterectomy derived piglets.  The uterus is not opened immediately.  The uterus is removed, and placed in a vat of mild disinfectant, moved 50 metres from the euthanised sow and the piglets removed by another team.  The piglets are then removed from the area and placed onto another farm.  This method is very successful at producing piglets free of parasites, respiratory and digestive diseases.  However, any pathogen which can cross the placenta may be transferred with the piglets – Parvovirus, PRRSv, PCV2 and even Streptococcus suis type II for example.

 

Preparation for a hysterotomy