GDV and Gastropexy

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), is a common life-threatening condition affecting large and giant breed dogs, or those with a deep chest. The stomach becomes malpositioned because the pylorus rotates, twists the cardia, and then prevents anything from being able to leave the stomach. Understanding the systemic effects in addition to the anatomical changes can help improve your ability to successfully manage the disease. These can be very intense cases when they are presented on emergency in shock. Treatment for GDV is emergency medical resuscitation to stabilize the patient and then immediate surgery to reposition and decompress the stomach and treat any secondary problems, such as gastric necrosis and splenic thrombosis. It is also valuable to consider indications for elective gastropexy in your patients. There are many known risk factors to consider when discussing this elective procedure with clients.