Decision making in bovine abdominal surgery

This article describes the signs, hematologic alterations, and methods of diagnosis of digestive disorders that may be treated surgically. The necessity for surgical intervention is analyzed, based on clinical experience and current knowledge. The prognosis for surgical correction of common digestive problems and prognostic indicators for abomasal volvulus are described. Decision analysis for digestive surgery is reviewed, with examples for abomasal displacement and volvulus. Preoperative preparation for abdominal surgery--including facilities, equipment, supportive therapy, and distinction between elective and emergency surgery--is discussed briefly. The four most common surgical approaches for abdominal surgery are reviewed, and their indications noted.