A Cost Effective Rumenotomy Operation of Traumatic Reticuloperitonitis for Uganda and Other Developing Countries

Abstract

Traumatic reticuloperitonitis long considered an economic disease among intensively kept cattle in developed industrialized countries has assumed hitherto unknown great proportions in dairy cattle in Uganda. The disease is prevalent among zero-grazed dairy cattle, where cows are fed on cut herbage and domestic feed wastes. In a period of 12years (1988-2000), 398 dairy cattle were operated on for removal of offending sharp or metallic objects and the affected cows responded with an increase in milk production. A laparorumenotomy performed routinely under a paravertebral nerve block with only 15-20 mls of 2%lignocaine, with occasional use of 100mg chlorpromazine as a tranquilizer, cost the farmer only US$70.0. This amount was very affordable by ordinary farmers, particularly women who keep zero-grazed cows. The same operation costs upto US $400.0 in North America and some European countries. The recovery rate after operation was 98%. The operations were carried out on farm premises in full view of the farmers who were also instructed on post operative care of their animals. Stitches were removed 10-12 days post-friendly operation that is well suited for poor developing countries like Uganda.

The Kenya Veterinarian Vol. 27 2004: pp. 83-86