Left Displaced Abomasum in Dairy Cattle: Current Concepts in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Strategies

Abstract

Left displaced abomasum LDA is one of the most common and costly metabolic digestive disorders of high producing dairy cows that mostly develops during the first month of postpartum. This review brings together existing knowledge of the multifactorial pathogenesis of LDA to go beyond simple models to stress the complexity of abomasal hypo motility, dietary factors, metabolic derangements and genetic predisposition. The period of transition is emphasized as the most critical that places the negative energy balance, hypocalcaemia, and subclinical ketosis together to instigate the deterioration of gastrointestinal functions. The correct diagnosis fully dependent on the typical ping which occurs with concomitant percussion and the use of listening is discussed with a supportive role of ultrasonography and clinical pathology which confirm the presence of displacement and evaluate the presence of metabolic complications. The critical review of modern treatment approaches is one of the focal points of this review. Surgical operation including the right flank omentopexy (Dirksen method), left flank abomasopexy and laparoscopic have been identified as the most effective treatment with the greatest success rate and least recurrence. Although percutaneous fixation techniques such as the toggle pin or the blind stitch have some benefits (such as being cheaper and quicker) they are also associated with a high rate of complications such as peritonitis and failure. A comparative study of these methods has been provided to facilitate clinical decision-making in terms of case details and operator proficiency. Finally, the management of LDA should focus on a holistic approach that incorporates the timely and precise diagnosis with a proper therapeutic plan supported by strong transition cow management to eliminate the risk factors.

Keywords: Left Displaced Abomasum, Dairy Cattle, Pathogenesis, Hypo motility, Diagnosis, Surgical Correction, Toggle Pin, Laparoscopy, and Transition Period