Gastropexy in dogs

Gastropexy is a surgical procedure performed to prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), also known as “bloat,” in dogs. It is usually performed as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of GDV in high-risk dogs or as a treatment for dogs that have already experienced GDV.

Our team at SurgiPet has created this article as a short, helpful guide to that you, the owner, can be fully informed when you consider gastropexy surgery for your pet.

What is prophylactic gastropexy in dogs?

Gastropexy is a surgery that is done to prevent a health problem called GDV in dogs. GDV happens when a dog’s stomach gets too big and twists. This creates a severe condition because it can cut off the blood supply to the stomach and other organs.

Gastropexy is usually performed on large breed dogs that are more likely to get bloat, like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Irish Setters. During the gastropexy surgery, the surgeon will attach the dog’s stomach to the belly wall. This will help keep the stomach from twisting. The surgery is relatively short and carries minimal risk of complication.

In what situations does SurgiPet Team recommend a gastropexy for my dog?

There are several situations in which we recommend gastropexy for your pet. Some common reasons include the following:

1. Your dog is a large breed that is prone to developing GDV. Large breeds at higher risk for GDV include Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, and other deep-chested breeds.
2. Your dog has a history of GDV. If your pet has experienced GDV in the past, they may be at a higher risk for future episodes and may benefit from a gastropexy to prevent future occurrences.
3. Your dog is being spayed or neutered. In high-risk breeds of dogs, we recommend performing a gastropexy at the same time as a spay or neuter surgery to prevent GDV or bloat.

At what age should gastropexy be performed?

The age at which a gastropexy should be performed depends on the individual dog and the specific circumstances. In general, we recommend gastropexy in dogs that are at least one year of age, as this is the age at which most large breed dogs have reached their full size and are no longer growing. However, occasionally we may recommend performing a gastropexy earlier in certain high-risk dogs, such as those with a history of GDV or those with a family history of the condition.

How long does gastropexy take to heal?

The healing process following a gastropexy surgery is relatively quick. Most dogs will return home the same day (outpatient surgery). After being discharged from the hospital, your pet must take it easy for several weeks to allow the incision to heal properly. During recovery, you must keep your pet calm and quiet. This means keeping them confined to a small area or crate and avoiding any strenuous activity. This also includes keeping your dog on a leash when going outside, limiting exercise and play, and avoiding jumping or roughhousing activities.

Your pet will need to rest for four weeks to allow “the pexy site” (the spot where the stomach is attached to the belly wall) to heal fully. Most dogs can return to their normal activities within 4-6 weeks after a gastropexy surgery.

What is the prognosis following gastropexy in dogs?

Dogs undergoing gastropexy surgery have an excellent prognosis and can return to normal activities within a few weeks. However, it is essential to follow all our instructions carefully and monitor your dog’s progress during recovery to ensure that the incision is healing properly and to address any potential complications. If you notice any concerning signs, it’s crucial to contact us right away.

How do I feed my dog after gastropexy?

Following gastropexy, it is essential to avoid allowing your dog to eat or drink large amounts at once, as this can put additional strain on the stomach. Instead, we recommended offering small amounts of food and water at regular intervals throughout the day. It is also very important to soak dry food before offering it.

After the sutures are removed (14 days after the surgery, you can gradually return to regular meals.

Why gastropexy surgery is worth doing in dogs?

While gastropexy surgery, like any surgery, involves some minimal risks, it is a valuable procedure for dogs that are at high risk for GDV. GDV, or “stomach flip or twist,” is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate emergency surgery and often prolonged hospital stay and recovery. Although gastropexy does not entirely eliminate the risk of GDV, it dramatically reduces the risk.

Some dogs with gastropexy can still develop bloat or stomach dilatation. However, gastropexy should prevent their stomach from twisting. While stomach dilation is an uncomfortable condition for your pet and requires treatment, it is rarely, if ever, life-threatening and can be easily managed medically without emergency surgery.

Can a dog’s stomach flip after gastropexy?

In most cases, gastropexy is a highly effective procedure for preventing GDV and can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent GDV in dogs. There are several reasons why it is very unlikely that a dog’s stomach will flip again after a gastropexy surgery.

First, the surgery involves physically attaching the stomach to the abdominal wall, which helps to prevent it from flipping or twisting.

Second, it is important to note that the risk of GDV occurring after a gastropexy surgery is very low. According to some estimates, the risk of recurrent GDV after a gastropexy surgery is less than 1%. This means that while it is possible that GDV could recur in some cases, it is very unlikely to happen.

My Dog Needs Gastropexy – Now What?

If your pet needs gastropexy, call or email us to schedule an appointment. Our veterinary surgeon will be happy to discuss the benefits of the surgery. If you agree surgery is the best option for your pet, we can perform it on the same day or schedule it at your convenience.

Before, during, and after the surgery, SurgiPet Team will update you with all the information you need for a safe and speedy recovery. We also offer a wealth of resources on our website to help you care for your pet when we’re not there.