Comparison between cortisol concentration in the amniotic fluid obtained from fetus born by elective and therapeutic c-section

• Grant number: 20/01201-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2020
• End date: July 31, 2022
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine - Animal Clinics and Surgery
• Principal Investigator: Maricy Apparício Ferreira
• Grantee: João Domingos Rocha Júnior
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias (FCAV). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Jaboticabal. Jaboticabal , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant(s): 24/01578-0 - 25th International EVSSAR Congress, AR.EXT

Abstract

Cesarean sections are routine surgical procedures, and are mainly indicated in bitches of breeds predisposed to dystocia, and the owners themselves have the right to choose to perform the procedure in their animals, if there is an intention to maximize the survival rate of neonates. Although ultrasound is an effective method for assessing fetal maturity, studies should be developed to improve gestational follow-up and ensure a varied number of options for the owner. In the present study, we will evaluate 16 female dogs, aged between 1 to 5 years, of variable weights, in the final third of pregnancy. The animals will be divided into 2 groups: the first group (CG) will consist of 8 pregnant bitches, which will be evaluated for the prediction of elective caesarean section date, while the second group (DG) will consist of 8 bitches submitted to C-section due to dystocia. The determination of the cesarean date will consider the date of artificial insemination or natural coitus and ultrasonographic analysis of fetus (BPD formulas). Anesthetic induction in both groups will be performed with propofol at a dose of 3mg / kg for orotracheal intubation and maintenance will be performed with isofluorane vaporization. Administration of 2% lidocaine at a dose of 2 mg / kg by epidural route will also be performed. Maternal blood will be collected before the surgical incision and after suture, at the end of the procedure, and amniotic fluid from the placenta of the neonates soon after being removed from the uterus. The samples will be sent for laboratory evaluation in order to measure the concentration of cortisol in these different fluids. (AU)