Evaluation of the efficacy of an oral magnet administration for the treatment of traumatic reticuloperitonitis in cattle

Abstract

Magnets were administered orally in 42 cows diagnosed with traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP) with radiographic evidence of sharp foreign bodies in their reticulum, and without any prior administration of atropine sulphate. Upon radiologic investigation, magnets were observed within the reticulum in 40 cases and foreign bodies were attached to the magnet in 24 cases. In 8 cases, though foreign bodies were dislodged but their attachment could not be clearly discerned. Foreign bodies were not attached to the magnet in 4 cows due to the presence of nonferromagnetic foreign bodies and in 2 cows because the foreign bodies were penetrating deep through the wall of the reticulum. In 2 cases, the foreign body was unattached to magnet and located close to magnet probably in the magnetic field. The radiological findings of foreign body attachment, non-attachment or displacement were confirmed in 14 animals by rumenotomy. It was concluded that magnet therapy is effective and radiological diagnosis is a reliable tool in making decision about surgical intervention in cases of TRP following administration of magnet.