Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GDV)

Allison Zwingenberger

University of California Davis


Publication Date: 2010-01-13

History

12 year old male Labrador Retriever who presents for abdominal distension. An esophageal tube was passed and gastric contents and gas were removed from the stomach. Radiographs were then obtained.

4 images

    
   

Findings

On this study, the stomach is mildly gas filled. The fundus appears to be in normal position; however, the duodenum is visible cranial to the stomach on both the VD and DV views. The spleen is not visible on either the VD or DV views; however, on the lateral view it appears mildly enlarged. The colon, cecum, and small bowel loops are mildly displaced on the right side and caudally.

Diagnosis

Discussion

Gastric dilation and volvulus of more than 180 degrees can be difficult to diagnose, especially if the stomach is not distended. In this example, the duodenum is seen on several views in an abnormal position. In a 270 or 360 degree volvulus, the rest of the stomach can appear to be in a relatively normal position. Make sure that you check for the duodenum as well.