Should I Gastropexy My Dog?

by Dr Ellene BVSc

A gastropexy is a surgical procedure in which the stomach is permanently attached to the abdominal wall. It is recommended in large, deep-chested breeds, to prevent the stomach from twisting on its own axis- a fatal condition called Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV). It also commonly known as bloat.
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Reasons to consider a gastropexy:

• Prevents the fatal twisting of the stomach(volvulus)- It does not stop a simple bloat (stomach filling with gas) but is prevents the stomach from rotating on its own axis. Rotation cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and the bloating stomach causes problems with blood supply to the heart which leads to severe shock. It is fatal in up to 80% of cases.
• Cost-effective prevention- Emergency surgery in a GDV case and the emergency care that they require during surgery and afterward ranges into thousands of dollars. A preventative gastropexy significantly lowers veterinary costs, by removing the need for emergency surgery.
• Convenient timing during routine desexing- The procedure can be performed electively at the same time as your dogs spay or neutering. Combining the procedures spares your dog from having a second general anaesthesia and reduces the total recovery time.
• Minimally invasive options are available- there are specialists and veterinary practices performing a laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure. This allows for smaller incisions; far less post-operative pain and a significantly faster recovery time compared to open abdominal surgery.
• Peace of mind for high-risk breeds- It offers permanent, lifetime protection, reducing the risk of GDV by 95%. It is strongly recommended if you own a deep-chested, high-risk breed like a Great Dane, German Shepherd, Saint Bernard, Doberman, Labrador, or if a direct relative of your dog has suffered a GDV.

Schedule an appointment to discuss this with one of our vets if you are interested or if you want more information.