[Gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus)].

AIM: The aim of this study was to present an overview of the gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in guinea pigs.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Four cases of gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in guinea pigs were evaluated. Its clinical presentation, diagnostic options, therapeutical approach and possible alternatives thereof were discussed. Furthermore, risk factors for the disease as well as pathophysiology and etiology were discussed and compared to the situation in other species.

RESULTS

The presented cases indicate that in addition to anamnesis and clinical examination, radiography is the means of choice to diagnose a gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in guinea pigs. All four patients underwent surgery. One animal was euthanized during surgery, the other three guinea pigs died postoperatively.

CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome in guinea pigs is considered to be an emergency and, therefore, immediate stabilization is necessary, as well as surgery in almost all cases. The prognosis of this disease is guarded to poor.