Case 2 - Captain (Case report)

Gastric dilatation and volvulus with partial splenectomy – German Shepherd Dog, 7y, male neutered

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is an acute life-threatening condition that is characterized by a rotation of the stomach that can lead to many systemic disturbances.

A seven-year-old male neutered German Shepherd Dog presented with an acute onset of retching and lack of appetite for the last 12 hours. Clinical examination and radiographic study was consistent with GDV. The patient underwent pre-surgical medical stabilisation before exploratory coeliotomy.

During surgical correction of GDV, the spleen was found with a focal area of congestion. It was confirmed an avulsion of short gastric vessels and gastrosplenic ligament. Partial splenectomy and an incisional gastropexy were performed.

The patient recovered well but experienced anorexia and abdominal pain after surgery. Lateral right abdominal radiograph revealed a large amount of liquid and gas in stomach that was readily aspirated with a nasogastric tube. After 48h of hospitalisation the patient was discharged with normal appetite.

Abstract