What is Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy?
Gastropexy is a surgical procedure by which the stomach is safely and securely anchored to the abdominal cavity. It prevents the stomach from flipping or twisting, effectively reducing or eliminating the risk of the life-threatening condition known as Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV). Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy is a minimally invasive form of gastropexy that decreases the risk of GDV to less than 1%.
What causes Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)?
GDV usually occurs after ingesting a large meal. The accumulation of gas, food and foam result in distention (expansion) of the stomach. In some instances the enlarged fluid-filled stomach will flip or twist on itself. Without release, the building gas continues to expand the stomach causing immense pain, increased heart rate and decreased blood flow to the surrounding tissues. Without emergency intervention, all dogs will succumb from shock and organ failure. Even with advanced and prompt surgical intervention, nearly 50% will die due to complications.
What breeds are at risk for developing Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)?
Large deep-chested breeds such as the German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Great Dane are most prone to GDV.
How is Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy performed?
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. A small, 1 cm incision is made over the abdomen near the umbilicus. A small camera is introduced to visualize the structures of the abdomen, primarily the stomach. Another small incision is made over the region of the stomach. Laparoscopic Babcocks (surgical instruments) are used to grasp the stomach and move it into a position where it can be permanently secured to the abdominal wall ensuring it will no longer flip or twist.
What are the benefits of Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy?
The benefits of Laparoscopic procedures are decreased anesthetic time, decreased surgery time, improved surgical technique, decreased pain, and decreased recovery time. Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy can be performed individually or at the same time as other procedures such as Laparoscopic Ovariectomy or Castration.
Sylvan Veterinary Hospital has performed thousands of Laparoscopic procedures for more than 20 years. If you have further interest and would like to consider the option of Laparoscopic-Assisted Gastropexy, please call Sylvan Veterinary Hospital at (209) 551-4527.