Paul L. Jones, DVM with Fonzy

Camelid Uterine Torsion
Woodburn Veterinary Clinic, P.C.
Woodburn, Oregon

 In my experience, uterine torsion is the most common cause of maternal related dystocias in llamas.

Uterine torsion has been observed to occur in maiden, multiparous and unicornis females.

Uterine torsion occurs in llamas pastured on flat land or hilly land, but in my practice the frequency is increased on hilly land. Torsion will occur in fat or thin llamas but with higher incidence in thin llamas. This is probably because the thinner llama is more active and tends to dust bathe more often.

I believe the anatomy of the uterus...long uterine body, the anatomy of the suspensory uterine ligaments, the anatomy of the abdomen, and the amount of time a llama spends rolling on her back contributes to the high incidence of llama uterine torsion.

The diagnosis of uterine torsion is made by clinical signs, vaginal and rectal exams. The clinical signs include prolonged first stage of labor, frequent unproductive visits to the dung pile, laying with legs extended out to the side, constant up and down activity, trying to roll, and other colic-like signs. A vaginal exam may reveal an occluded vaginal vault with tight bands running clockwise or counter-clockwise. Visualization of the cervix may or may not be possible depending on the degree of torsion. Rectal exam if possible, will reveal a fetus out of normal presentation and tight bands of tissue. External abdominal ballottement of the fetus will also reveal an unnatural position.

Correction of uterine torsion may involve several techniques. These techniques range from doing nothing to performing a caesarean section. I have noticed that many females have signs of uterine torsion for a few hours but then seem to self correct. These females are simply observed more closely for any further signs. If correction is necessary, I have developed a standing technique that works well if the torsion is clockwise and not more than 180 degrees. Rolling is by far the most common technique used in practice This may involve some sedation. The llama is placed on the appropriate side, depending which way the uterus is torsed, the fetus is found and fixed through the wall of the abdomen by hands while the llama is rolled in the direction of the torsion. If the torsion cannot be corrected quickly by rolling then a caesarean section may be the best alternative for a successful outcome for mother and fetus.