Surgical management of pyometra in a miniature sow

An American Miniature pig sow (~ 5-year) was presented for abdominal distention and lethargy of 2 weeks duration. Initial diagnostics revealed distended fluid-filled structures in the caudal abdomen on ultrasonography, and minor alterations in biochemistry and complete blood count profiles. Exploratory laparotomy under general anesthesia revealed a large uterus distended with purulent material; ovariohysterectomy was performed. The uterine horns were friable and inadvertent rupture of the left horn occurred that was managed intraoperatively. Postoperative management included intravenous fluids, antiinflammatory and antimicrobial therapies. Complications encountered during hospitalization were mild hypotension under anesthesia and constipation/ileus during recovery. Culture of the uterine contents revealed mixed growth including Escherichia coli, Schaalia hyovaginalis, and Trueperella abortisuis. The sow was discharged 6 days after surgery and no complications were reported. Comparative management as described for other species was useful in the treatment.