## Overview Prepubic tendon rupture is a catastrophic tearing of the tendon that supports the abdominal wall, most often in late-gestation mares carrying heavy foals, twins, or with hydrops. The abdomen drops dramatically, severe ventral edema develops from the udder forward, and the mare is reluctant to move and in pain. Complete rupture cannot be surgically repaired and often requires euthanasia. Partial tears are managed supportively. ## Causes Excessive abdominal weight in late pregnancy, especially in older multiparous or draft mares. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance of a dropped abdomen and rapidly progressive edema, plus ultrasound. ## Treatment Supportive care with belly bandages and pain relief for partial tears. Induction or cesarean section if near term. Complete rupture has a poor prognosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Poor for complete rupture. Guarded for partial tears with intensive support. ## Prevention Monitoring of high-risk mares. No proven prevention.
severe ventral edema from the udder forward; dramatically dropped abdomen; reluctance to move; pain; inability to foal normally
## Overview Prepubic tendon rupture is a catastrophic tearing of the tendon that supports the abdominal wall, most often in late-gestation mares carrying heavy foals, twins, or with hydrops. The abdomen drops dramatically, severe ventral edema develops from the udder forward, and the mare is reluctant to move and in pain. Complete rupture cannot be surgically repaired and often requires euthanasia. Partial tears are managed supportively. ## Causes Excessive abdominal weight in late pregnancy, especially in older multiparous or draft mares. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance of a dropped abdomen and rapidly progressive edema, plus ultrasound. ## Treatment Supportive care with belly bandages and pain relief for partial tears. Induction or cesarean section if near term. Complete rupture has a poor prognosis. ## Recovery and Prognosis Poor for complete rupture. Guarded for partial tears with intensive support. ## Prevention Monitoring of high-risk mares. No proven prevention.
severe ventral edema from the udder forward; dramatically dropped abdomen; reluctance to move; pain; inability to foal normally