Gastric dilatation volvulus: a treatment guide

Abstract

Gastric dilatation volvulus is a relatively common emergency presentation in small animal veterinary practice. Typically, deep-chested large and giant breed dogs are affected, but the condition has been reported in other breeds of dog, such as the Dachshund. Dogs presenting with gastric dilatation volvulus will typically exhibit signs of lethargy, retching and unproductive vomiting, distension of the cranial abdomen, ptyalism and respiratory compromise. In some cases, patients will present in severe hypovolamemic shock. Prompt recognition, stabilisation and surgical correction of the gastric dilatation volvulus are required for successful treatment of the condition. This article discusses the approach to investigation, stabilisation, surgical correction and postoperative management of gastric dilatation volvulus.