Small intestinal volvulus in 47 cows

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Large Animal Surgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Small intestinal volvulus (SIV) is a critical surgical emergency in cattle.
• Understanding the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and outcomes is vital for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the clinical findings, treatment strategies, and outcomes of small intestinal volvulus (SIV) in a cohort of 47 cows.
• To compare the characteristics of surviving versus non-surviving animals to identify prognostic indicators.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of medical records from 47 cows diagnosed with SIV.
• Comparison of clinical, laboratory, and ultrasonographic findings between surviving (n=18) and non-surviving (n=29) cows.
• Surgical intervention (right flank laparotomy) was performed in 41 cases.

Main Results:

• Common signs included colic (66.0%), tachycardia (68.0%), tachypnea (59.6%), absent rumen motility (93.6%), and dilated small intestines (48.9% on rectal exam, 87.1% on ultrasound).
• Key laboratory abnormalities were hypocalcemia (74.1%), hypokalemia (73.8%), and azotemia (62.8%).
• Survival rate was 38.3%; non-survivors had poorer general condition, more severe rumen stasis and intestinal atony, and higher urea and magnesium levels.

Conclusions:

• Small intestinal volvulus in cows is characterized by acute onset, lack of rectal feces, and dilated small intestines.
• Prognosis is guarded, with a high mortality rate, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and intervention.
• Factors like general condition, rumen stasis, and intestinal atony significantly influence survival outcomes.