Evaluation of the best time for manual removal of retained fetal membranes in the cow

The syndrome of retained fetal membranes (RFM) is an important problem in dairy cattle industry in Iran and most other countries. However, the syndrome has not been defined precisely nor specific recommendations have been suggested for its management. Most scientists believe that if the fetal membranes are not expelled spontaneously within 12 hours after parturition, the term RFM could be used. To determine the best time for manual removed of fetal membranes, a total of 200 cows affected by this syndrome were identified in the farms of Tabriz area and randomly allocated into four groups of 50 animals each (A, B, C and D). In groups A, B and C the fetal membranes were removed manually at days 6, 7 and 8 postpartum respectively. Complete or incomplete removal of fetal membranes was recorded in each animal. In group D, the membranes were not removed manually and allowed to be expelled spontaneously without any external intervention. The results indicated that meanplacental expulsioningroup D was10.8 days. In group A, the fetal membranes of 26 cows (52%) were removed completely while those of 24 cows (49%) were incompletely removed. These figures for group B were 38 cows (76%) and 12 cows (24%) respectively. The fetal membranes of all animals in group C were completely removed manually. Based on chi square test, significant statistical difference was observed between all experimental groups (