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Dog GDV
Dog GDV Case Study
Max, a 4-year-old male Labrador Retriever, presented to Greenslopes Family Vet Clinic following an episode of acute respiratory distress and non-productive retching. The symptoms developed suddenly after an off-lead run at the park. His owner reported no prior digestive issues but mentioned a significant past trauma: six weeks earlier, Max had been hit in the chest by a car. At that time, a complete clinical examination, including chest X-rays, revealed no significant injuries beyond bruising, and Max was sent home with instructions for rest and monitoring.
On examination, Max displayed:
- Increased respiratory rate and effort
- Muffled heart sounds
- Signs of severe discomfort
Diagnostic assessment
Given these findings and his history of trauma, repeat chest X-rays were performed. The imaging revealed a massive diaphragmatic hernia, with abdominal organs—including the stomach and spleen—displaced into the thoracic cavity. More critically, Max had also developed gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV) within the chest cavity.
GDV, a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists and bloats, is already a critical emergency in deep-chested breeds. However, in Max’s case, it was even more dire due to the compression of his heart and lungs. Given his rapidly deteriorating condition, transferring him to a referral hospital was deemed too risky. Emergency surgery was the only viable option.
Max’s anaesthesia was particularly challenging due to his impaired respiratory and cardiac function. He required mechanical lung ventilation throughout the procedure to maintain oxygenation.
Surgical findings included:
A small tear in the diaphragm, likely caused by the previous motor vehicle accident, which had allowed the stomach and spleen to herniate into the chest cavity. The stomach was bloated and twisted, confirming the GDV diagnosis. The spleen was swollen and adhered to the displaced stomach.
The surgical procedure involved:
- Full abdominal exploration through a laparotomy.
- Opening the diaphragm from top to bottom to allow organ repositioning.
- Deflating and de-rotating the stomach before placing it back into the abdomen.
- Securing the stomach with a gastropexy, permanently attaching it to the abdominal wall to prevent future displacement.
- Repairing the diaphragmatic tear and closing the abdomen.
- Placing a chest drain to remove trapped air and aid post-operative recovery.
Outcome and recovery
Max showed an exceptionally rapid recovery. Within two hours post-surgery, he was alert, comfortable, and eagerly devouring his dinner—true to his Labrador nature. He continued to improve steadily and made a full recovery without complications.
While Max’s case was an unusual combination of diaphragmatic hernia and GDV, typical GDV cases are common in deep-chested breeds, with an incidence as high as 40% in Great Danes. Most cases occur in older dogs, but they can be prevented entirely with a prophylactic gastropexy, which can be performed when desexing.
At Greenslopes Family Vet Clinic prophylactic gastropexy will be offered as a preventative measure for high-risk breeds, ensuring peace of mind for owners and reducing the likelihood of emergency situations like Max’s.
Pets are family
Our practice is grounded in the values of trust, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. We understand that your pets are more than companions—they are cherished members of your family. We provide proactive, personalised care that supports their health and happiness at every stage of life.