Abstract
Although omphalitis and persistent urachus are common umbilical disorders seen in calves, these are difficult to diagnose by physical examination alone. The bladder, urachus, and umbilicus of seven calves with umbilical disorders were examined using ultrasound. Two of three calves with local omphalitis showed pus-like accumulation within their umbilici, which were surgically removed. Three of four calves with persistent urachus also showed abscess-like material within their urachi or umbilici, which were surgically removed. One calf with no evidence of pus accumulation developed dysuria. Surgery revealed remnants of the urachus and umbilical arteries, together with adhesion of the urinary bladder and urethra. Ultrasound was useful for diagnosing umbilical disorders in calves. Imaging of the bladder increased the accuracy of diagnosis and localization of the surgical area, which resulted in the selection of precise treatment.
