Veterinary Clinical Medicine-I (General and Systemic)

ACUTE ABDOMEN

• It is a multietiologic clinical syndrome characterized by the sudden onset of intense abdominal pain and associated signs which include: shock, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in gastrointestinal peristaltic activity, fever, anorexia and dyspnea.
• Immediate supportive therapy is often indicated to preserve the life of the patient while a diagnosis is pursued. Decisions about the overall management of the patient can only be made after establishment of an accurate diagnosis. Even with a searching history and physical examination the etiology may tax the diagnostic acumen of even the most experienced practitioner. Diagnostic laboratory and radiographic procedures are essential.
• An acute abdominal problem can usually be classified into one of three categories, each dictating its own course of management:
  • Intra-abdominal lesions usually requiring urgent surgical intervention after a period of resuscitation and stabilization.
  • Primary medical conditions or surgical conditions not usually requiring immediate surgical intervention.
  • Medical and Surgical Conditions Simulating the Acute Abdomen.