Fetal mummification is an uncommon, but clinically significant reproductive malady of the bovine. The cow is often culled when a mummified fetus is diagnosed. However, attempts at treatment are justified for cows of genetic merit. Medical therapy withprostaglandins alone or in conjunction with estrogens is the time honored treatment of choice. Surgical removal via hysterotomy is an option when medical treatment has failed. Traditional surgical approaches (ventral midline or flank) typically do not provide adequate exposure to a uterus with a small "mummy". A vaginal approach provides good exposure, and can be performed while the cow is standing. The vaginal approach (colpotomy) has been used in the cow and mare for the removal of ovaries, and is not associated with a higher rate of complication than other surgical approaches. Limited experience with surgical removal of mummified fetuses would indicate that subsequent fertility is similar to cases responsive to medical treatment.
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