Gastric Dilitation Volvulus

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is a life threatening condition typically seen in large, deep chested dogs (e.g.: Dobermans, German Shepherds, and Great Danes). The cause of this painful condition is a bit of a mystery, but it tends to happen after 2-3 hours after eating. GDV results from the stomach (Gastric) distending with gas (Dilatation) and subsequently twisting upon itself (Volvulus) and cutting off the blood supply. The distended stomach causes compression of the large blood vessels, impairing blood flow to other organs in the abdomen. Dogs suffering from GDV have non-productive retching and profound abdominal distension. Diagnosis of GDV is based upon history, physical examination, and abdominal x-rays. Patients with GDV must be treated aggressively for shock and require emergency surgery to decompress the stomach and return it to its normal position to restore blood flow to the organs in the abdomen. During surgery, the stomach is sutured to the body wall to prevent recurrences of GDV. The stomach tacking does not prevent the bloating, but prevents the life threatening volvulus.