Comparison of the recurrence rate of gastric dilatation with or without volvulus in dogs after circumcostal gastropexy versus gastrocolopexy.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the recurrence rate of acute gastric dilatation with or without volvulus (GDV) after circumcostal gastropexy (CCGP) or gastrocolopexy (GCP) in dogs.

STUDY

DESIGN

A prospective, double-blind, multicenter, randomized, controlled, clinical trial with two groups (A and B).

ANIMALS: Fifty-four client-owned dogs presented for treatment of GDV.

METHODS

Dogs with acute GDV that had not previously had a gastropexy performed were included. The preoperative treatment before gastropexy was standardized. A CCGP was performed on dogs in group A, and a GCP was performed on dogs in group B. Postoperative treatment was standardized, but deviation did occur according to the special needs of particular patients. A minimal follow-up time of 180 days was required for dogs not excluded from the study. The median follow-up time in group A was 700 days; in group B, it was 400 days. The occurrence of abdominal pain and gastrointestinal problems after surgery were recorded by the owners.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the recurrence rate of GDV between the two groups. At the end of the study, the recurrence rate was 9% and 20% in group A and in group B, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Both surgical techniques are effective in preventing recurrence of GDV.