Bloat - A True Emergency, Acute Gastric Dilation + Volvulus (or AGD/V) Dr. Robert Baker, DVM
Acute Gastric Dilation is a rapid onset of gas build-up in a stomach that is usually filled with fluid or food. Volvulus occurs when the stomach is rotated on its axis, usually in a clockwise manner, which in turn compromises the vascular system. Either of these situations has the potential to be life-threatening emergencies and the two combined, which is often the case, can be deadly. This is a true emergency and veterinary care should be sought immediately. The sooner treatment is initiated, the better the prognosis.
Cause
The cause for AGD/V is unknown. Symptoms have been known to develop after a dog has eaten rapid quantities of dry food and drank large quantities of water, followed by increased activity. However, AGD/V may occur without any known determining cause.
AGD/V is most frequently seen, but not always, in deep-chested large breeds of dogs such as the Great Dane, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Irish Setter, Saint Bernard, Bloodhound, etc. It is seen less frequently in small breeds such as Dachshunds.
Symptoms
The symptoms seen often involve sudden onset episodes of mild to moderate retching, belching, and attemps at vomiting or reguritation of small quantities of white foamy material.
The stomach lies in the back third of the chest cavity and distention will become visible behind the last ribs. Pain on abdominal palpation and a tight upper abdomen are also symptoms. The animal will be sluggish and reluctant to move. When in doubt, seek emergency care – don’t wait.
Treatment
Veterinary care for this problem is intense and usually involves blood work, radiographs (x-rays), decompression, IV fluids, pain medication, ECGs, antibiotics and surgery known as gastropey operation, which is the returning of the stomach to its normal position and attaching it to the abdominal wall to prevent future rotation. In some situations, partial removal of the stomach wall and/or spleenectomy may be warranted. (The prognosis is usually poorer in these situations). Four figure costs are not unusual in these circumstances.
Costs
Upon arrival at the veterinary care facility, a frank, upfront discussion of cost would be prudent for those who cost might be a concern for, as they can be extensive.
Prognosis
Prognosis can be good if treatment is immediate. It becomes poorer if the stomach wall is damaged and/or spleenic torsion exists.
Patients who respond to treatment and recover well post-surgically have a good prognosis. Gastropexy is very important in preventing reoccurrence.
Prevention
Preventing AGD/V is difficult since the cause is unknown. However, such things as avoiding excessive amounts of dry food or water combined with exercise are important. Feed small meals several times daily rather than one or two large meals.
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