Management of umbilical diseases

Abstract

Umbilical infections are the most under-diagnosed pathology in young calves.1 Infection of the umbilicus can have signifi­cant effects on the calves’ development and mortality rate. Early detection of umbilical infection is important to avoid its progression of the infection deeper in the umbilical remnants. Once infection is established, the treatment necessitates either drainage or en-bloc removal of the umbilical structures. This presentation focuses on the surgical treatment of severe um­bilical infections, their clinical presentations, the different sur­gical techniques and their associated outcomes, as well as the possible post-operative complications.