Risk factors associated with cow mortality following field-based cesarean sections: a study in Minas Gerais, Brazil

This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with maternal mortality in dairy cows undergoing cesarean section under field conditions in the Alto Paranaíba region, Minas Gerais, Brazil. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using records from 104 cesarean sections performed between August 2022 and April 2025. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were evaluated, including the interval between the onset of parturition and surgery, surgical environment, preparation of surgical materials and the surgical team, duration of the procedure, and postoperative complications. Associations between categorical variables and maternal death were analyzed using odds ratios and Fisher's exact test. The overall maternal mortality rate was 35.58% (37/104). A parturition-to-surgery interval equal to or greater than eight hours and the concomitant occurrence of postoperative metritis and peritonitis were significantly associated with an increased risk of death. Other variables related to aseptic practices were not statistically significant and were analyzed descriptively. These findings indicate that delayed surgical intervention and concurrent infectious complications are the main risk factors for maternal mortality in dairy cows undergoing cesarean section under field conditions, reinforcing the importance of timely decision-making and strict adherence to aseptic protocols.