What is gastric dilation volvulus (GDV)?

Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV), sometimes called bloat, is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on its axis. This leads to increased intra-gastric pressure and obstructs blood flow returning to the heart. Without emergency surgery, GDV is fatal. While the exact cause is unknown, large-breed, deep-chested dogs are at a higher risk.

Typical early clinical signs of bloat:

• Abdominal distension
• Abdominal pain and discomfort
• Non-productive vomiting
• Excessive drooling
• Collapse

If these signs are noticed, immediate emergency veterinary care is advised.

Potential complications following emergency GDV surgery:

• Arrhythmias
• Stomach wall death
• Coagulation disorder causing anaemia (low blood count) due to internal bleeding
• Extended hospitalisation
• Death (if emergency intervention is delayed)

Breeds at risk

The biggest risk factor for GDV is a deep-chest conformation. While large-breed dogs are most at risk, smaller deep-chested breeds such as dachshunds and basset hounds can also be affected. GDV is a common condition among these dogs. For example, great Danes have a one-in-three lifetime risk of developing GDV.

Breeds at risk include, but are not limited to: akita, Alaskan malamute, Bernese mountain dog, boxer, cane Corso, Dobermann, English/Gordon/Irish setter, great Dane, German shepherd, golden retriever, standard poodle, Irish wolfhound, labrador, mastiff, Leonberger, newfoundland, rottweiler, Saint Bernard, Weimaraner, and mixed breeds with deep-chested lineage.

What is a gastropexy and why do it?

A gastropexy is a surgical procedure that permanently attaches the stomach to the right side of the abdominal wall, preventing it from twisting. This eliminates the need for emergency surgery, reduces complications, and prevents death from GDV. Although a gastropexy does not prevent gas buildup, it prevents the stomach from rotating, making the condition manageable rather than life-threatening.

Surgical options

A gastropexy can be performed:

• Laparoscopically (keyhole surgery): Less discomfort and quicker healing.

• Open surgery: Requires an abdominal incision, slightly larger than that used for desexing.

A prophylactic gastropexy can be combined with desexing (male or female) using either approach. The ideal age for the procedure is 9-18 months, but it can be performed at any age, even if a dog has already been desexed.

What can be done besides prophylactic surgery?

Prophylactic gastropexy is the best method to eliminate the risk of GDV due to deep-chest conformation. While feeding practices may reduce additional risk factors, they do not prevent GDV entirely.

Recommended preventative measures:

• Feed smaller, more frequent meals instead of one large meal per day.
• Avoid pre-moistening dry food.
• Limit large volumes of water intake at once.
• Avoid exercise immediately after eating.

While these steps can help, they do not eliminate the structural risk associated with deep-chested breeds. Prophylactic gastropexy remains the best preventative measure against this life-threatening condition.