SURGICAL TECHNIQUES AND POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT IN THE TREATMENT OF ABOMASAL DISPLACEMENT IN COWS

Abstract

Abomasal displacement (AD) in dairy cows is a common condition in ruminant clinical practice, occurring due to multifactorial etiologies such as hypomotility, tympany, acidosis, diets rich in concentrates and poor in effective fiber, abrupt dietary changes, and especially conditions associated with the postpartum period. Thus, abomasal displacement leads to economic impacts and production losses. The condition is characterized by the migration of the abomasum from its normal anatomical position to the left side (LDA), which is more common, or to the right side (RDA), and may progress to volvulus, a surgical emergency. Treatment consists of anatomical repositioning of the organ and permanent fixation through techniques such as abomasopexy or omentopexy to prevent recurrence. The choice of technique should be based on the severity of the clinical condition and the animal's status. Postoperative management is as critical to success as the surgical technique itself. During this period, clinical and biochemical monitoring is required, with emphasis on biomarkers of intestinal injury, such as I-FABP and TFF3, restoration of metabolic balance, provision of an adequate diet rich in fiber with proper adaptation to support ruminal motility recovery, adequate hydration for electrolyte correction, and, when necessary, the use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.