Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life threatening condition which requires emergency intervention and surgery and can be fatal in up to 40% of cases. Large, deep- chested breeds are at greatest risk (Great Dane, German Sheperd, St. Bernard, Weimaraner, Setters, Standard Poodles, Doberman Pinchers…). A genetic or familial link has been identified. The cause of GDV is not fully understood but many patients have a history of previous bloat and/ or other gastrointestinal mobility disorder. In cases of GDV, the stomach fills with gas and the pylorus twists along the ventral body wall and up the left side ultimately cutting off blood and oxygen flow to the stomach. Many times the spleen will twist as well, become engorged and form blood clots within the vessels. These events ultimately lead to shock and/ or death if immediate emergency intervention is not sought.
Gastroppexy is the definitive surgical procedure for treatment and/ or prevention of GDV where a permanent adhesion or scar is produced between the region of the pylorus of the stomach and the adjacent body wall. Following gastropexy, bloating may occur; however, the life threatening twist is not possible.
Recent data suggest that in large breed dogs with a history of gastrointestinal motility disorders, 80% of cases showed significant improvement in clinical signs. Further studies have shown that there are no adverse effects to the normal physiology or function of the gastrointestinal tract in those dogs who have had a gastropexy performed. In large breed dogs at risk, dogs with a family member who has had a GDV, or dogs with a history of bloating, prophylactic gastropexy is highly recommended. GDV can be fatal and the high cost of successful treatment make prophylactic gastropexy a favorable and affordable treatment recommendation.
Prophylactic gastropexy can be performed on any dog at any age. Routinely these procedures are best performed while elective ovariohysterectomy, castration, or dental prophy are being performed to minimize anesthetic requirements as well as hospital stay; however, it can also be performed at any time.