Surgical treatment of left displaced abomasum

Left displacement of the abomasum (LDA) in cows is a common gastrointestina l disorder that is diagnosed primarily through simultaneous auscultation an d percussion of the left thoracic area to detect a variable-pitched ping fr om the abomasum, indicative of a gas-fluid inter-face. Cows with LOA are of ten anorexic and have decreased milk production and electrolyte abnormaliti es. Surgical treatment of LOA has been shown to be successful and economica lly feasible. Economic decisions about the treatment of LOA must be based o n the direct cost of surgery and treatment of concurrent conditions. There are distinct advantages and disadvantages associated with each surgical tec hnique relating to the position of the cow, the location of the incision, a nd the experience of the practitioners. For surgical treatment of LOA to be successful, early detection and treatment of secondary conditions (e.g., k etosis) must be emphasized as well as aggressive treatment of concurrent or predisposing conditions.