A Holstein cow that had calved the evening before presented the following morning in sternal recumbency with a prolapsed uterus, cyanotic and edematous. The owner reported unsuccessful attempts to get the animal to stand. After checking vital functions, we first administered IV calcium salts to address the likely hypocalcemia (the animal was depressed, with ruminal bloat) and to reduce uterine wall flaccidity and bleeding, promoting smooth muscle contractions. Using obstetric chains, we then positioned the animal in sternal recumbency with the hind limbs extended backward. This made the uterine repositioning maneuvers easier to perform and also helped limit the intensity of the animal's expulsive contractions.
