GDV & Prophylactic Gastropexy: Prevention Can Save a Life
If you have a large or deep-chested dog, you may have heard of GDV (gastric dilatation-volvulus), or “bloat.” GDV is a life-threatening emergency in which the stomach fills with gas and can twist, cutting off blood supply and potentially leading to shock, tissue death, and death. It requires immediate emergency treatment and surgery.
Some breeds are particularly predisposed, including Great Danes, German Shepherds, Weimaraners, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, Gordon Setters, Standard Poodles, and Basset Hounds. Having a close relative who has experienced GDV also increases risk. Although I have seen it in small-breed dogs as well.
One of the best preventive options for high-risk dogs is a prophylactic gastropexy. During this procedure, the stomach is surgically attached to the abdominal wall so that it cannot easily twist. A gastropexy does not prevent the stomach from becoming distended or “bloating,” but it is designed to prevent the catastrophic twisting component of GDV.
Gastropexy can often be performed at the time of another planned abdominal procedure, such as a spay or neuter, or it can be performed on its own as a separate procedure.
As a veterinarian, I would love to discuss whether prophylactic gastropexy is appropriate for your dog. If your dog is one of the breeds at increased risk—or simply has the body shape or family history that puts them at higher risk—let’s talk about prevention before we ever have to face this emergency. 
Prevention is always better than an emergency.
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