Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening emergency where the stomach distends with gas (dilatation) and rotates on its axis (volvulus), cutting off blood supply and trapping gas. Without immediate surgical intervention, GDV is fatal within hours. It primarily affects large, deep-chested breeds.

Symptoms & Signs

• Unproductive retching or attempts to vomit
• Rapidly distending abdomen
• Restlessness and pacing
• Excessive drooling
• Pale gums
• Rapid heart rate
• Weakness and collapse
• Abdominal pain

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause is multifactorial. Risk factors include large/giant breed with deep chest, eating one large meal daily, rapid eating, exercise after eating, stress, advancing age, family history, and elevated feeding bowls. Aerophagia (air swallowing) contributes to gastric distension.

Diagnosis

Clinical presentation (distended abdomen, unproductive retching) combined with right lateral abdominal radiograph showing the characteristic 'double bubble' or 'shelf sign' indicating gastric volvulus. Emergency stabilization precedes definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

Emergency treatment: IV fluid resuscitation, gastric decompression (trocarization or orogastric tube), correction of shock. Surgical intervention: gastric derotation, assessment of gastric and splenic viability, gastropexy (permanent stomach fixation), splenectomy if needed.

Prevention

Prophylactic gastropexy (during spay/neuter or as standalone procedure) in high-risk breeds. Feed 2-3 smaller meals daily. Avoid exercise 1 hour before and after eating. Use slow-feeder bowls. Avoid elevated food bowls. Reduce stress during feeding.

Prognosis

With early surgical intervention, survival rates are 80-90%. Delayed treatment or gastric necrosis significantly worsen prognosis. Recurrence rate without gastropexy is 75-80%. With gastropexy, recurrence is <5%.

Affected Breeds (10)

Related Conditions

• Gastric Dilatation
• Splenic Torsion
• Mesenteric Volvulus