Displacement of the Abomasum

Abomasal displacements are one of the most common abdominal conditions affecting production dairy cattle. The abomasum can displace to the left side of the abdomen or dilate and displace on the right. Additionally, a right-sided displacement can turn into an abomasal volvulus which is an emergent condition. Due to their commonality, abomasal displacements pose significant economic ramifications to the dairy industry. It is a disease that likely has a genetic predisposition, but management factors play a significant role in their pathogenesis. Most simple displacements have a good to excellent prognosis for surviving, but production will likely be impacted in the affected lactation. Multiple surgical methods have been developed for correction of abomasal displacements from open surgical techniques to minimally invasive procedures. There are limitations with each technique, and none are ideal for every situation.