Gastric dilatation-volvulus in dogs
Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v19n10e1845Keywords:
Dogs, surgery, dilatation, laparoscopic, gastropexy, breedsAbstract
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a severe and potentially fatal condition that primarily affects large and giant breed dogs. Prophylactic gastropexy has become established as the golden standard to reduce the risk of volvulus. This technique has an efficacy close to 100% in preventing stomach rotation (volvulus), although it does not eliminate the risk of simple gastric dilatation. In terms of safety, the surgery carries a very low risk of serious and direct complications, typically less than 5%. This study presents a literature review and a comparative analysis between animals undergoing prophylactic gastropexy and those treated on an emergency basis. The most effective techniques identified were incisional gastropexy and belt-loop gastropexy, both associated with low morbidity and excellent long-term outcomes. Patients undergoing the elective procedures, often combined with neutering, showed faster recovery, lower anesthetic risk, and better prognosis. It is concluded that prophylactic gastropexy should be strongly recommended for predisposed dogs, due to its safety, proven efficacy, and positive impact on quality of life.
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