Surgical management of perineal hematoma with vaginal tear in a cow: A rare clinical case report

Introduction

Perineal hematomas are characterized by sudden swelling, pain, and discomfort in the perineal or vulvar region, often accompanied by dysuria, straining, and reluctance to move [1] . It is an uncommon reproductive disorder in cattle that results from trauma to the perineal region, leading to rupture of subcutaneous blood vessels and subsequent accumulation of blood in the tissues. While most genital tract injuries in cattle are associated with parturition or obstetrical manipulations, trauma during natural service may also cause significant perineal injury, particularly in heifers or cows with narrow vaginal passage, poor relaxation of the genital tract, or when subjected to forceful mating by a heavy bull [2] . Vaginal tear in cattle is uncommon but frequently reported due to trauma during parturition, assisted delivery, or, less frequently, during mating [1] . Traumatic mating injuries are usually seen in heifers or cows with inadequate relaxation of the genital tract, narrow vaginal passage, or when mated with a heavy bull [2] . Such injuries may range from superficial lacerations of the vaginal mucosa to deep tears involving submucosa and surrounding connective tissue. Vaginal tears are generally associated with bleeding, swelling, pain, and straining in severe cases, or other secondary complications like infection, prolapse, and adhesions may lead to infertility or permanent damage to the reproductive tract [3] . Early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are necessary to restore the integrity of the vaginal wall and management of haematoma to minimize infection, and ensure normal reproductive performance. This report describes the clinical presentation and successful surgical management of perineal haematoma along with vaginal tear in a cow following traumatic mating. from the last 15 days. The owner reported that the swelling developed post-mating and it gradually started increasing in size. The animal was exhibiting difficulties with normal urination and defecation. Transrectal and transvaginal examination revealed that the animal was having a hard swelling and there was a large tear measuring up to 10 cm in the vaginal roof. The vital parameters like rectal temperature, respiration and heart rate were in normal range. Haemato-biochemical values were within normal range, and also found negative to blood protozoa. FNAC sample suggested that a large no, RBC cell. Sonographic examination revealed the presence of homogeneous echogenic contents without any vascularity, no organs were involved. Surgery was planned for the removal of the perineal mass and the repair of the tear defect under posterior epidural anaesthesia. After proper aseptic preparation, an incision was made above the swelling. It was excised to remove the haematoma contents (Fig. 2). The defect in the vaginal roof was repaired with a simple interrupted suture pattern using vicryl, size-2 (Fig. 3). The skin incision was partially sutured with cross mattress sutures (Fig. 4). The cavity was plugged with gauge soaked in povidone iodine. It was advised to change on alternative days. Post-operative antibiotics and analgesics were given. Calendula-glycerine paste was used to hasten the healing process.

Results

The surgical intervention was successful, and the cow uneventfully recovered over a period of one month. The swelling subsided gradually, and the surgical wound healed without any major complications. Sutures remained intact, and no signs of infection, discharge, or recurrence of hematoma were observed during the post-operative period. The animal maintained normal urination and defecation throughout recovery. Follow-up examination confirmed complete resolution of the hematoma and satisfactory healing of the vaginal tear, restoring the integrity of the reproductive tract.

Discussion

Genital tract injuries in cattle are relatively uncommon, but may occur during parturition, obstetrical manipulations, or traumatic mating [3] . In the present case, traumatic mating led to the unusual simultaneous occurrence of a perineal hematoma and a vaginal tear. Vaginal tears are often associated with insufficient relaxation of the genital tract, narrow vaginal passage, or excessive force applied during mating, particularly in heifers or cows mated with a large bull [4] . The perineal hematoma observed was due to rupture of subcutaneous blood vessels in the perineal region, leading to rapid accumulation of blood and swelling. It causes discomfort, dysuria, and straining [5] . Vaginal tears, on the other hand, can lead to hemorrhage, infection, adhesions, and infertility if left untreated. The simultaneous presence of the two disorders predisposes the case to secondary infection and hinders effective management. Early surgical intervention was critical in this case. Evacuation of clotted blood, drainage of the hematoma, and suturing of the vaginal tear under proper aseptic precautions prevented further complications. Similar observation also reported by Purohit, [4] and Sharma et al. [6] that early surgical correction of vaginal tears promotes rapid healing and restores normal reproductive performance in cows. Use of systemic antibiotics, NSAIDs, and local wound care minimized infection risk and supported tissue healing, consistent with earlier recommendations for genital tract trauma in bovines [7] . In contrast, non-surgical or conservative management like topical antiseptics, expectant healing, or delayed drainage has been associated with prolonged convalescence, recurrent infection, and reduced conception rates [8] .

Conclusion

The present case highlights the successful surgical management of perineal hematoma along with a vaginal tear in a cow caused by traumatic mating. Early diagnosis, timely surgical intervention, and appropriate postoperative management ensured complete recovery. Therefore, early detection and proper treatment of genital injuries are essential not only for saving the life of the animal but also for preserving reproductive health and its future productivity.

Acknowledgement

AcknowledgementThe authors express sincere gratitude to the Dean, Bihar Veterinary College, Patna for their valuable support in this study. Their encouragement and insights were instrumental in the successful completion of this work.

References

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