Section: Information In-depth
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a condition that is centered initially in the stomach, but eventually can affect the entire body. Some problems that can result are:
Shock and cardiovascular complications
Bleeding disorders
Injured spleen
Secondary infection
Heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). The arrhythmias are caused by poor oxygenation to the heart (myocardial ischemia), release of toxins, electrolyte abnormalities, acid-base abnormalities, and gastric receptor stimulation.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Aspiration pneumonia
Gastric necrosis
Gastric ulceration
Recurrence of dilation and/or volvulus
These problems can persist even as the GDV is successfully resolved. Other medical problems can lead to symptoms similar to those encountered in GDV, and it is important to exclude these conditions before establishing a definite diagnosis. They are:
Gastric dilation without volvulus
Gluttony bloat (gastric distention from overeating)
Aerophagia, which is swallowing air due to difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
Ascites, or fluid accumulation in the abdomen
Torsion of the spleen
Diaphragmatic hernia with stomach herniation
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