Abstract of research

Clinico-biochemical and surgical evaluation of omaso-abomasal volvulus in cattle

Akraiem, A1., Kumper H. 2, Doll K. 2, Abd Elghany, H. 3

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine and characterize the clinical, hematological, biochemical parameters and outcome in cows suffering from Omaso-abomasal volvulus (OAV). Animals data were obtained from medical records of 60 adult dairy cattle suffering from OAV (Clinic for Ruminants, Justus-Liebig-University, Germany). For each case, history, age, results of clinical examination, hematological and biochemical findings were recorded and analyzed. Ages of animals were between 2.3 and 8 years, (mean 4.8). Compared with the respective normal range, there were significant increases of the heart rate, hematocrit, total bilirubin, urea blood, concentrations of bicarbonate and base excess. Serum chloride and potassium were significantly decreased in the majority of cows. In this study, dehydration, metabolic alkalosis, hypochloremia, hypokalemia and circulatory insufficiency were the major common findings in cows with Omasum-abomasal volvulus. Excessive stretching of the abomasal wall and long lasting strangulations at the torsion-sites must be avoided (surgery should be performed as soon after diagnosis of AOV as possible) and correction of these conditions with aggressive intravenous fluid therapy is necessary before the surgical intervention for correction of the hematobiochemical alterations.