Laparoscopic reposition with abomasopexy [Janowitz method] for treatment of left displaced abomasum in dairy cows

ABSTRACT

This article describes a minimal-invasive technique for surgical correction of left displaced abomasum in dairy cows. This laparoscopic technique was first described by Janowitz in 1998 as a two-step-method. During the first part the cow is in standing position. From the left flank the displaced abomasum is visualized with a laparoscope and punctured with a trocar. Under laparoscopic control the abomasum deflates and a special toggle is inserted in the abomasal lumen. For the second part of surgery the cow is placed in dorsal recumbency. The laparoscope and a special forceps are inserted in the abdominal cavity from the ventral abdominal wall. The toggle sutures are visualized, grasped with the forceps and exteriorized. In right lateral recumbency the abomasum is positioned with the toggle sutures and each suture is threaded through a bandage and tight together. The sutures are cut 4 weeks after surgery. Field experiences with this method and two controlled clinical trials show that it is a fast and wellsuitable technique for surgical correction of left displaced abomasum. It can be performed regardless of the degree of abomasal displacement and rumen filling. Using the laparoscope a fixation of the pyloric part of the abomasum or other abdominal structures is avoided and the diagnosis of adhesions of the abomasum is possible. Further advantages of this technique are a low incidence of complications and a fast postoperative recovery of the animals