Pyometra And Cervical Wedge Resection In A Mare

Abstract

A 21-year-old mare evaluated for inappetence and lethargy was diagnosed with pyometra secondary to cervical fibrosis and adhesions. Palliative treatment consisted of uterine evacuation and lavage, however the chronic fibrosis and recurrence of cervical adhesions precluded complete resolution of the condition. A cervical wedge resection was performed to reestablish cervical patency and facilitate uterine drainage. Following surgery, the cervix was manipulated regularly to prevent stenosis and adhesion formation. Eleven weeks after surgery, the mare developed a dilation of the cranial cervical canal and stenosis of the internal cervical os. The stenotic internal cervical os allowed a small amount of malodorous purulent fluid to drain from the mare’s uterus but the opening was too small to permit uterine lavage. Ovariohysterectomy was offered as a curative solution for the mare’s recurrent pyometra; the owner elected conservative management.