Physiological aspects of the omasum and abomasum

Abstract

The abomasum can be envisioned as a structure having a somewhat primitive contractile pattern and the capability of secreting large volumes of acid fluid. In addition, it may have the capacity of absorbing a portion of the chemical products resulting from rumen fermentation. Both the secretory activity and the motility patterns of the abomasum can be apparently altered by the nature of the ingesta presented to it. Are thesephysiological aspects relevant when clinical disorders of the bovine abomasum are considered? Perhaps they are very relevant. A subsequent paper will attempt to relate research information to certain clinical disorders of the abomasum and to speculate on possible pathophysiologic processes involved.