Gastric Dilatation Volvulus

Roseann B. Baars AS, CPDT

     Gastric Dilatation Volvulus commonly referred to as bloat is a critically urgent medical condition that is all too common in deep-chested large and giant breed dogs. The breeds most at risk for this dreadful event include; Great Dane, German Shepherd Dog, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter, Weimeraner, Doberman Pinscher, Saint Bernard, and  Standard Poodle. Dogs of all breeds most frequently affected by GDV are between seven to ten years of age. The progeny of a dog with a history of Gastric Dilatation Volvulus are at an increased risk for developing GDV. Heritibility is suspected but has not been irrefutably substantiated in the literature. Considering the life threatening nature of this condition dogs that have developed Gastric Dilatation Volvulus should not participate in breeding programs.

     Some in research have theorized that gastric emptying disorders play a role in the development of GDV but so far there is little evidence to prove this. The trapping of fluids, solids and or gas in the stomach can be caused by a mass, narrowing of the pylorus, a lodged foreign body or a pinched duodenum perpetrated by a grossly inflated stomach. When torsion occurs, the clockwise rotation (90-360 degrees) of the stomach chokes off the esophagus (the lower end) and compresses the vena cava terminating blood flow. Consequently, dogs suffering from GDV require a quick but accurate diagnosis, prompt stabilization and immediate implementation of the proper medical and surgical procedures.

     Animals with signs of Gastric Dilatation Volvulus such as; an acute onset of restlessness, unproductive retching, excessive drooling and a distended abdomen should be taken to the nearest veterinary hospital immediately for evaluation and treatment. If torsion has occurred prior to arriving even more alarming signs will be evident, including; pale mucous membranes, irregular heart rate, abnormal pulse and a prolonged capillary refill time. Historic reports from the animal’s owner will declare repeated attempts to vomit subsequent to a large meal followed by a period of exercise. The working diagnosis of GDV will be confirmed or disproved with diagnostic measures including abdominal radiographs (right lateral preferred) and the submission of blood drawn from the patient to check for elevated values of urea/creatinine, potassium, phosphorous, ALT, AST, etc. If GDV is confirmed the animal will need to have the stomach repositioned surgically, post stabilization and decompression. To prevent a recurrence the stomach will be sutured to the abdominal wall (gastropexy). Post-surgical complications can lead to morbidity and or mortality.

     Risk factors for GDV, both dietary and non-dietary, have been rigorously studied. Ironically, one of the most popular recommendations, feeding from a raised food bowl, resulted in an impressively increased risk of 110% rather than a decreased risk. Interestingly, an increasing chest depth to width ratio most significantly increased the risk for GDV by 170%. Other risk factors include speed of eating, being male, having a first degree relative afflicted by GDV, being underweight, eating one meal daily, having a fearful temperament and susceptibility to stressors.    

Works Cited

West Geoffrey, Blacks Veterinary Dictionary, 17th Edition, Barnes and Noble Books, Latham, MD.

Kahn Cynthia, Merk Veterinary Manual, 9th Edition, Merk and Co. Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ.

McCurnin, Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians, 3rd Edition, p. 187-188.

Glickman Lawrence T, et. al, Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association,

 Jan-Feb, 1998.

Glickman Lawrence T., et. al, http://www.vet.purdue/epi/update2.htm, Canine Gastric Dilation-Volvulus (Bloat), Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN.

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