Integrative approach to a patient following rumenotomy ˗ case report

ABSTRACT Concern with antimicrobial resistance in animal production systems increases the interest toward integrative therapies. The objective of the present report was to report an integrative approach to a goat undergoing rumenotomy. A goat with ruminal acidosis underwent rumenotomy, corrective rumen suture, moxibustion, and treatment of the surgical wound (TFO) with sugar. In the first twenty days, acupuncture was performed on ST36, indirect moxibustion on Sp6 and CV8, and TFO with antibiotic ointment and sugar. The wound contracted 2cm, there was gradual return of ruminal dynamics, and moderate pain. Acupuncture continued from D21 to D50 on Yin tang, BL13, BL20, BL23, and BL22. Although there was drainage of ruminal fluid, the wound contracted 4cm during this period, pain was absent, and ruminal dynamics normal. During the last thirty days, the acupuncture technique surround the dragon was used and BL13 point needled, with complete closure of the wound. The TFO from D21 was performed solely with sugar. During treatment, there was modulation of the inflammatory response, with formation of granulation tissue and neovascularization. On D84, fibrinogen was 100mg/dL. The authors conclude that the use of sugar, acupuncture, and moxibustion contributed to return of normal ruminal motility, wound contraction, and complete tissue reepithelization.