Ultrasonography in the confirmation of left displaced abomasum in a dairy cattle: case report

Abstract

The constant development of dairy cattle herds is accompanied by the creation of animals with high genetic and productive potential, requiring advances related to management, nutrition, disease control, among others. Thus, it is extremely important to improve techniques for diagnostic exams that can be used in clinical routine in the field. The objective of this study is to report a case of diagnosis of left displaced abomasum in a bovine, performed by means of transabdominal ultrasound evaluation. The patient presented clinical symptoms characteristic of this disease and the presence of a metallic sound “ping” on auscultation. Ultrasound examination was performed by scanning the last intercostal spaces of the left antimere to confirm the presence of the abomasum in an atypical localization. The diagnosis was validated by exploratory laparotomy through the right flank, followed by emptying and correction of the abomasum to its original anatomical position. The animal gradually returned to normal feeding and milk production, and was clinically healthy. Therefore, the transabdominal ultrasound evaluation was able to confirm the diagnosis of abomasal displacement and provide a return to the patient's health and welfare. Imaging diagnosis has a high potential for dissemination in the bovine medical clinic, especially in clinical routine in the field.