Gastric Dilitation Volvulus

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is a painful and life-threatening condition that results in distention and rotation of the stomach. The disease is more common in canines as compared to felines. The cause of the disease is still unknown but it tends to occur after 2-3 hours of eating. In this disease, the stomach distends with gas and twists upon itself which cuts off the blood supply to other organs of the body by compressing the large blood vessels. Diagnosis is based on physical examination and radiographs that show gas-dilated stomach and GI tract. Treatment includes decompression and repositioning of the stomach to its normal position to restore the blood supply to other organs of the body. The stomach may be statured to the body wall to avoid recurrence of the disease. This does not prevent bloating but prevents the life-threatening volvulus.