Write the indications, anaesthetic regimen, surgical procedure and post-operative care of rumenotomy in buffaloes.

Indications for Rumenotomy in Buffaloes

Rumenotomy is indicated in situations where the rumen is suspected to be the source of a problem and other diagnostic methods are inconclusive or ineffective. Specific indications include:

• Ruminal Calculi (Stones): Formation of mineral deposits within the rumen, leading to discomfort, decreased appetite, and potential perforation. This is a common issue in buffaloes, especially those fed inadequate roughage.
• Foreign Body Ingestion: Accidental ingestion of objects like metal pieces, plastic, or twine, causing obstruction or tissue damage.
• Ruminal Impaction: Accumulation of undigested material in the rumen, hindering normal motility and fermentation.
• Ruminal Ulcers/Masses: Diagnosis and potential biopsy of unusual growths or lesions within the rumen.
• Severe Bloat unresponsive to other treatments: When gas accumulation cannot be resolved through traditional methods.

Anaesthetic Regimen

Anesthesia is crucial for a safe and successful rumenotomy. Due to the size and temperament of buffaloes, a combination of injectable and local anesthetic techniques is typically employed.

Pre-anesthetic Medication

• Sedation: Xylazine hydrochloride (0.1-0.2 mg/kg body weight) is commonly used to reduce anxiety and facilitate handling.
• Analgesia: Buprenorphine (0.01-0.02 mg/kg) can be administered to provide pain relief.

Induction

• Ketamine (1-2 mg/kg) is often used for induction, followed by Diazem (0.2-0.5 mg/kg) to facilitate endotracheal intubation.

Maintenance

• Isoflurane (1-3%) in oxygen is commonly used for maintaining anesthesia.
• Mechanical ventilation is essential to ensure adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal.

Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, temperature) is critical throughout the procedure.

Surgical Procedure

The surgical procedure requires a skilled surgeon and a well-equipped operating theatre. The location of the rumenotomy site is crucial, typically on the left ventral abdominal wall.

Preparation

• Shaving and disinfection of the surgical site.
• Positioning the buffalo in a lateral recumbency (left side down).

Incision and Rumen Exposure

• A ventral midline laparotomy is performed.
• The rumen is carefully identified and gently retracted.
• A rumenotomy incision is made, typically 10-15 cm in length, avoiding major blood vessels. The incision is usually made parallel to the rumen wall.

Exploration and Intervention

• The rumen is thoroughly explored using fingers and instruments to identify any abnormalities (calculi, foreign bodies, masses).
• Calculi are removed carefully to avoid damage to the rumen wall.
• Foreign bodies are grasped and extracted.
• Biopsy samples are collected if necessary.

Rumen Closure

• The rumenotomy incision is closed with a simple interrupted pattern using absorbable sutures (e.g., polyglactin).
• The rumen wall is gently approximated.
• The laparotomy is closed in layers.

Post-operative Care

Post-operative care is critical for preventing complications and ensuring a smooth recovery.

• Pain Management: Continue analgesics (e.g., Buprenorphine) as needed.
• Fluid Therapy: Administer intravenous fluids to correct any dehydration and support kidney function.
• Nutritional Support: Start with easily digestible feeds (e.g., liquid feed, gruel) and gradually reintroduce the regular diet.
• Wound Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Monitor for signs of infection (swelling, redness, discharge).
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, rumen motility, and appetite.
• Antibiotics: Prophylactic broad-spectrum antibiotics may be considered to prevent post-operative infections.

Parameter	Consideration for Buffaloes
Body Size	Higher drug dosages are needed due to larger volume of distribution.
Rumen Anatomy	Careful anatomical knowledge is essential to avoid injury to surrounding structures.
Temperament	Strong sedation and restraint are often required.