The application of EDTA-Tris and chlorhexidine in the treatment of endometritis as a replacement for antibiotic therapy in cows

Abstract

The treatment of reproductive disorders is based on the use of the available antibiotics or antiseptic agents. Prolonged or inadequate antibiotic treatment contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistances, while the use of antiseptics, particularly in high concentrations, leads to endometrial lesions and prolonging of the service period. The present study included monitoring of: 1) reproductive disorders of cows; 2) cytological, morphological, and bacteriological laboratory analyses; 3) susceptibility testing of isolated bacterial and reference strains to the EDTA-Tris (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid-hydroxymethyl aminomethane) and chlorhexidine (CHX); and 4) an estimate of the time before onset of the new sexual cycle. The aim of the research was to determine whether the combination of EDTA-Tris and CHX in concentrations that are not harmful to the endometrium may result in the satisfactory treatment of sick animals and provide optimal service periods of reproductively active animals. Research results of in vitro and in vivo analysis showed that by using the combination of EDTA-Tris and CHX bactericidal effects were achieved at lower concentrations in comparison with the concentrations that had the same effect in the absence of EDTA-Tris. The application of CHX in a concentration of 0.05% in the treatment of endometritis 10 min after infusion of EDTA-Tris solution had a positive effect on both the involution of the uterus and acutization of chronic inflammatory processes, and it was also economically advantageous when compared to the cost of treatment and the possible presence of residues in the products.