fetotome

fetotome

an instrument designed for use in cows and mares for the purpose of dissecting a dead fetus in utero when normal delivery is impossible and cesarean section inadvisable. There are a number of special instruments all based on fetotomy wire saws passed through metal tubes about 3 ft long. These are threaded external to the cow by passing the wire saw out of the end of one tube, into the uterus and around the part to be amputated, out of the uterus and into the other tube. The two ends of the saw are brought out of the far ends of the tubes and special handles are attached. The tubes are inserted into the uterus and pushed hard up against the skin. Rapid see-sawing with the saw completes the task.