Treating Bloat: What To Expect When Your Pet Needs a Laparoscopic Gastropexy

For any dog owner, it’s essential to know what ailments could affect your dog before they happen. Some breeds are prone to sicknesses due to their size. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV, (more commonly known as bloat or torsion) is a life-threatening illness that can occur in large dog breeds. At Jane Animal Hospital in Toronto ON, our veterinarians can diagnose and treat gastric dilatation-volvulus in your dog through laparoscopic gastropexy and set them back onto the path of good health.

What Are the Warning Signs of GDV?

GDV causes the stomach to twist in on itself. When the stomach is bloated and twisted, circulation to the stomach and spleen are cut off. With the entrance and exit of the stomach blocked, air and gases are trapped inside with no way escape. Surgery is needed to untwist the stomach, and laparoscopic gastropexy is a potentially attractive surgical option. 

GDV is very painful for dogs. Signs of GDV include an enlarged abdomen, restlessness, retching, excessive salivation, and whining. Pressing lightly on the stomach area may cause pain. GDV is serious and treatment should be sought quickly, as around 30% of GDV cases result in death. While bloat can occur at any time, most cases will emerge two to three hours after eating.

Large breeds have the highest risk of developing GDV. Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Weimaraners, Irish Setters, Gordon Setters, Standard Poodles, Basset Hounds, Doberman Pinschers, and Old English Sheepdogs are breeds most at risk because of their large barrel chests. While you should not worry needlessly about your dog developing GDV, you should be aware of the symptoms.

What Is a Laparoscopic Gastropexy?

Laparoscopic gastropexy is less invasive than other types of gastropexy surgeries. During the operation, our veterinarian inserts a small camera through an incision near the belly button. Using equipment, our veterinarian attaches the stomach to the body wall. While a gastropexy doesn’t prevent bloat from occurring, it prevents the stomach from being able to twist around itself. This procedure is less invasive than a traditional gastropexy, so your dog will recover more quickly.

Is There a Veterinarian Near Me That Treats This Condition?

A laparoscopic gastropexy isn’t just for emergency surgery. Gastropexy surgery is also a preventative option for dogs that could be high-risk of GDV. Here in Toronto, our team at Jane Animal Hospital can answer any questions you have about laparoscopic gastropexy. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at (647) 490-1716.