Gastropexy

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition affecting dogs where the stomach becomes bloated (dilated) and twists, with catastrophic consequences.

A gastropexy is a preventative surgical procedure performed by permanently attaching the most freely mobile part of a dog’s stomach to its body wall. Gastropexy reduces the risk of a GDV occurring by 80%.

A gastropexy is a relatively low risk procedure when performed as a preventative measure.

Giant and large breed dogs are most at risk for GDV, and those with a deep chest also have an increased risk. Breeds that are particularly predisposed to this condition include Great Danes, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Irish Wolfhounds and standard poodles.

A preventative gastropexy is usually performed at the same time as desexing but it can be done as a standalone procedure.