Surgical Management of Omphalophlebitis in a Calf Complicated by an Umbilical Abscess: A Case Study

A 25-day-old male calf was admitted to the Ruminant Clinic of the University Veterinary Hospital in Košice without prior treatment. The owner reported swelling in the umbilical region. A comprehensive clinical examination confirmed the presence of a palpably tender swelling in the external umbilicus. Biochemical blood analysis revealed results within the reference range. Hematological examination showed leukocytosis. The patient’s temperature at admission was 38.5 °C. Ultrasonographic examination of the umbilicus and abdominal cavity confirmed the presence of an amorphous mass in the external umbilicus with central hyperechogenicity. The umbilical vein (v. umbilicalis) was identified sonographically, and its connection to the umbilicus was confirmed. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the liver showed no pathological findings. Based on the persistent connection of the v. umbilicalis with the umbilicus and the risk of infection transmission, a surgical approach was chosen to remove the umbilical abscess and v. umbilicalis. Postoperatively, the calf was administered the antibiotic amoxicillin and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug flunixin meglumine. The wound was treated topically daily, and the calf was returned to the owner’s farm 11 days after admission.