Type 4 vagal indigestion is best described as

• A. Ileus/late pregnancy leading to functional pyloric outflow failure
• B. Rumen tympany
• C. Abomasal volvulus
• D. Esophageal obstruction

Answer: (A)

Type 4 vagal indigestion is defined by an ileus with functional pyloric outflow failure. In this pattern, there isn’t a true physical blockage of the outflow tract; instead, the normal coordinated contractions and opening of the pylorus are impaired, so abomasal contents and gas are held up and distend the stomach. This dysfunction is often seen in late pregnancy, where the enlarging uterus and associated nerve irritation can disrupt vagal control of abomasal motility, leading to delayed emptying.

This differs from a rumen bloat (rumen tympany), which is gas accumulation in the fore-stomach due to eructation failure; from an abomasal volvulus, which is a real mechanical twist causing an obstruction; and from esophageal obstruction, which blocks passage from the esophagus itself. The key idea is functional outflow failure from vagal dysfunction rather than an actual physical blockage.