Clinical and ultrasonographic differences between cattle and buffaloes with various sequelae of traumatic reticuloperitonitis

This study was performed to document the clinical and ultrasonographic differences between cattle and buffaloes with various sequelae of traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP) and the importance of ultrasonography in detection of such sequelae. Twenty nine cows and 33 buffaloes with TRP were investigated. By using ultrasonography and some confirmatory techniques as paracentesis, laparotomy and necropsy, the various sequelae of TRP in both species were clarified. Acute local peritonitis, chronic local peritonitis, acute diffuse peritonitis, reticular abscesses, thoracic abscesses and pericarditis have been detected as sequelae of TRP in both cattle and buffaloes. The clinical findings of all sequelae are described. The results of the present study indicate that the classical symptom of pain and systemic reactions were common in most sequelae of TRP in cattle and less common in buffaloes. No specific findings have been recorded for reticular abscesses in both species. Brisket oedema and distended jugular veins have been shown in both cattle and buffaloes with pericarditis and also in four buffaloes with thoracic abscesses. Hence, it is important to use ultrasonography for early detection of TRP especially in buffaloes and to discriminate between different sequelae which have the same clinical findings.