Umbilical Hernia in Holstein Friesian Calf and its Surgical Management

Abstract

A three-months old Holstein Friesian calf weighing about 58kg body weight was presented to Upazila Veterinary Hospital, Hathazari, Chittagong with a history of swelling at the umbilical region from its birth . Clinical examination revealed umbilical hernia with a hernial ring of 3 fingers breadth. This case was handled surgically by means of herniorrhaphy. The animal was prepared via clipping and shaving of hairs precautionary with the site aseptically.It was sedated using Xylazine 0.03mg to 0.05 mg/ Kg body weight and the site of operation was desensitized by using 2% lignocaine hydrochloride.The calf was positioned on dorsal recumbency and an elliptical incision was given on the hernial ring. While giving incision care was taken not to puncture any visceral organ. Moreover giving incision, the contents of intact peritoneum was inverted into abdominal cavity. After repositioning of the hernial ring, kelotomy was performed.The hernial ring was stitched with over-lapping mattress suture using nylon no.2. The suture was first preplaced and then tightened from centre to periphery. The skin of hernial sac was trimmed off lateral to hernial ring and stitches were put on to the skin using nylon by simple interrupted pattern. After that the animal was treated post-operatively with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory for 5 & 3 days respectively. The suture was removed after 14th days of post operative treatment.