Line 35: Line 35:  
===Therapy===  
 
===Therapy===  
   −
Dystocia is usually not an emergency situation but delay increases the risk of complications and decreases the chance of a successful treatment. In cases where parturition ceases, treatment for dystocia should be instigated within 48 hours. However, treatment may be successful up to a week after parturition begins. Snakes with dystocia should initially receive supportive care, especially environmental conditions within their POTZ and rehydration.  
+
Dystocia is usually not an emergency situation if the female is bright, alert and responsive, but delay increases the risk of complications and decreases the chance of a successful treatment. In cases where parturition ceases, treatment for dystocia should be instigated within 48 hours. However, treatment may be successful up to a week after parturition begins. Snakes with dystocia should initially receive supportive care, especially environmental conditions within their POTZ and rehydration.  
   −
Methods for treating dystocia include injections of calcium and oxytocin, ovocentesis and salpingotomy. These are outlined on the following screen.  
+
Initially, husbandry practices should rectified - assess temperature, nesting site, hydration and surrounding environment.
 +
 
 +
If oviposition does not occur within several weeks or the reptile becomes dehydrated and lethargic, consider surgical intervention (ovariosalpingectomy).
 +
 
 +
Treatments such as manual manipulation, aspiration of the egg contents and administration of calcium and oxytocin may be ineffective or dangerous to the patient and are therefore not recommended.
 +
 
 +
Once follicular dystocia is established, ovariectomy is indicated. Coeliotomy is followed by removal of the ovaries and follicles. It is not essential to remove the oviducts.
    
===Prevention===
 
===Prevention===
Author
2,954

edits