Rumenotomy due to Metallic Foreign Bodies in Rumen of Adult Dairy Cow

Abstract

A nine years old cross-breed Holstein Friesian dairy cow weighing 280kg with medium body condition was presented to Mekelle University Veterinary Teaching Hospital Mekelle, Ethiopia. The cow was presented with the signs of frequent abdominal distention, abdominal pain, grunting, grinding of teeth, reduced feed intake, progressive weight loss, and falling behind as the owner complains. The detailed clinical examination revealed that dull, depressed, reduced appetite and weakness, and the case was confirmed as traumatic reticuloperitonitis. The case was handled surgically by exploratory rumenotomy after preparing the surgical site was prepared aseptically and stabilizing with fluids and electrolytes preoperatively. Para-vertebral nerve block by using 2% lignocaine hydrochloride was done. A long skin incision starting about eight to ten centimeters below the transverse process of the lumbar vertebrae was made vertically. The abdominal muscles and peritoneum were also incised following the skin incision. The rumen was fixed with the stay suture and metallic foreign bodies were removed using magnetic material through exploration. After removing the content of the rumen, it was closed by double lambert suture. Then closing the peritoneum and muscle with catgut by simple continuous pattern. The skin was sutured with nylon using a cross mattress suture. The cow was completely recovered after 20 days of followup observation. In the current case report, the successful management of traumatic reticuloperitonitis due to metallic foreign bodies in a cow is discussed. loss (falling behind). Recurrent rumen tympany, pale mucous