Intestinal or gastric torsion

What is intestinal or gastric torsion?

A twisted stomach or intestine is a change in the position of the stomach or intestine that leads to a pinching of the blood vessels and nerves. The stomach or intestine can rotate by 90°, 180° or even 360°. This blocks the entrance and exit of the stomach or intestine. The stomach or intestine can no longer empty itself and becomes bloated with gas. This leads to severe pain, shock and organ failure.

What are the causes of an intestinal or gastric torsion?

The exact causes of intestinal or gastric torsion are not fully understood. However, there are some factors that can increase the risk:

• The size and shape of the dog: Large dogs with deep chests have more space for the stomach or intestines, which can twist more easily as a result. Great Danes, St. Bernards, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers and Bernese Mountain Dogs, for example, are particularly susceptible.
• The dog's eating behavior: If the dog eats too much, too quickly or too greedily, it may swallow too much air or not digest its food properly. This can lead to an overload and bloating of the stomach or intestines. Also, if the dog romps or jumps around after eating, it can set its stomach or intestines in motion and cause them to twist.
• The dog's food: Some types of food can lead to increased gas formation in the stomach or intestines. This applies in particular to wet food, fatty food or food that is difficult to digest. Even if the dog frequently switches between different types of food, this can upset its digestion.
• The sex and age of the dog: Male dogs are more likely to suffer from intestinal or gastric torsion than female dogs. Older dogs also have a higher risk than younger dogs.
• The dog's stress level: Stress can affect a dog's digestion and lead to increased gas formation in the stomach or intestines. Stress can be triggered, for example, by fear, excitement, pain, illness or changes in the environment.

What are the symptoms of intestinal or gastric torsion?

An intestinal or gastric torsion is an acute emergency that can lead to the dog's death within a few hours. It is therefore important that you recognize the symptoms early and take your dog to the vet immediately. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity, but typically the following signs are seen:

• Restlessness and anxiety: your dog becomes restless and nervous. He paces back and forth, whines, whimpers or howls.
• Gagging and vomiting: Your dog tries to vomit, but nothing comes out. He gags and salivates more.
• Bloated belly: Your dog's belly becomes hard and round. It tenses up and hurts when you touch it.
• Difficulty breathing and panting: Your dog is breathing heavily and panting heavily. He may also turn blue or cough.
• Shock and unconsciousness: Your dog becomes weak, listless or unconscious. His mucous membranes will turn pale, his extremities will become cold and his pulse will become weak.

How is an intestinal or gastric torsion diagnosed?

To diagnose an intestinal or gastric torsion, the vet will examine your dog and check his vital signs. He will also palpate and tap his abdomen to detect gas accumulation. To determine the location of the stomach or intestines, he will take an x-ray or ultrasound. He will also take blood samples to assess the condition of the organs.

How is intestinal or gastric torsion treated?

Intestinal or gastric torsion is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary treatment. Treatment consists of two steps:

• Stabilization: the vet will provide your dog with oxygen, fluids and pain medication to stabilize his circulation. He will also try to relieve the stomach or intestines by inserting a tube through the esophagus or a tube through the abdominal wall. This will allow him to release the gas and reduce the pressure.
• Surgery: The vet will operate on your dog under anesthesia to put the stomach or intestines back into the correct position. He will also check whether the stomach or intestine is damaged and whether he needs to remove parts of it. To prevent re-rotation, he will stitch the stomach or intestine to the abdominal wall.

What is the prognosis for intestinal or gastric torsion?

The prognosis of intestinal or gastric torsion depends on several factors, such as the time of treatment, the extent of the torsion, the condition of the organs and the occurrence of complications. The earlier the treatment takes place, the better the dog's chances of survival. However, complications can occur even after a successful operation, such as infections, bleeding, cardiac arrhythmia or digestive problems. It is therefore important that you keep a close eye on your dog after the operation and follow the vet's instructions.

How can intestinal or gastric torsion be prevented?

An intestinal or gastric torsion is not always preventable, but there are some measures you can take to reduce the risk:

• Feed your dog high quality food that is easily digestible and does not cause bloat.
• Divide your dog's daily ration into several small meals and feed him from a shallow bowl.
• Avoid stressing or straining your dog before or after eating. Let him rest for at least an hour before and after eating.
• Do not give your dog wet, fatty or hard-to-digest food as a treat or reward.
• Don't switch between different foods frequently and introduce new foods slowly.
• Have your dog checked and vaccinated regularly.
• Have your dog spayed or neutered if it is not being used for breeding.
• Have your dog surgically fixed (gastropexy) if it belongs to a risk group or has already had a bowel or stomach torsion.