[Assisted delivery of the calf by manual or mechanical traction (author's transl)].

During the past few years, an increasing number of farmers examined cows at parturition and attempted delivery of calves. Frequently, the veterinarian is merely called in to perform caesarean section. From the point of view of obstetrics, quite a number of caesarean sections could have been avoided if a thorough examination of the cow had been made. Examination and treatment of cows at parturition is described in detail. Particular attention is paid to the mechanical features of delivery. The advantages and disadvantages of manual and mechanical traction are discussed.