Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)

X-ray appearance of GDV prior to decompression Click to enlarge

Who is usually affected?
-Large and giant breed dogs
-Most commonly found in deep chested dogs such as St. Bernards and Great Danes

What is happening?
-The stomach twists and traps large amounts of air
-The stomach becomes so enlarged it places pressure on major blood vessels causing the dog to go into shock

Clinical signs you might notice in your pet
-Restlessness, discomfort
-Drooling, retching, and unsuccessful attempts at vomiting
-Bloating of the abdomen
-In severe cases collapse and the inability to stand or walk may occur

*ALL OF THESE SIGNS SHOULD BE HANDLED AS AN EMEREGENCY. TAKE THEM IMMEDIATELY TO THE CLOSEST VETERINARY EMERGENCY CLINIC.*

Diagnosis
-Careful physical examination to detect signs of shock and abdominal bloating
-X-rays are frequently used to further examine the stomach

Therapy
-Medical therapy must precede surgery:
-IV (Intravenous) fluid administration
-Intensive monitoring of blood values, heart rhythm, and blood pressure
-Release of excessive air in the stomach via passage of a tube
-Surgical therapy:
    -Replacing the stomach to its normal position
    -Remove portions of stomach or spleen that are dead (necrotic)
    -Permanently attach the stomach to the inside body wall so twisting does not occur (gastropexy)

Special postoperative care
-You will be asked to feed your dog smaller amounts of food, more frequently throughout the day
-Dog will need to avoid vigorous exercise immediately after eating
-To help reduce the intake of air into the dog's stomach while eating, elevate the food and water bowls

Expected results with surgery
-The survival rate is about 80% if the patient is able to walk prior to surgery
-The survival rate is about 60% if any portion of the stomach is deadened due to lack of blood supply
-Chance of Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) recurrence is about 2% with gastropexy