Uroperitoneum in a preparturient mare

A 12-year pregnant Thoroughbred mare at ~ 340 days of pregnancy was presented for evaluation of lethargy, anorexia, and colicsigns. Reproductive examination was unremarkable; however, uroperitoneum was diagnosed via transabdominal ultrasonography,serum biochemistry, and peritoneal fluid analysis. Mare was medically stabilized for 24 hours. To promote fetal maturation, 80mg dexamethasone was given prior to Caesarean section and exploratory celiotomy. A ventral urinary bladder wall rupture andmultiple descending colon mesenteric rents were identified and repaired. Foal was delivered alive, treated for neonatal maladjustmentsyndrome, and discharged after 14 days. Seven days after surgery, severe complications of the mare led to its abrupt declinein health and sudden death.