Dilatation-Torsion de l'Estomac (DTE) chez les Chiens
La dilatation-torsion de l'estomac est une urgence mortelle où l'estomac se remplit de gaz et se tord. Les minutes comptent — connaissez les signes.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, is one of the most terrifying emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply. Without immediate treatment, death occurs within hours. Large, deep-chested breeds are at highest risk. If you suspect bloat, rush to RVC immediately — do not wait. Call +853 6677 6611 en route.
Points Clés
- Bloat is a true emergency — death can occur within 1-2 hours
- Large, deep-chested breeds are most at risk (Great Danes, Shepherds, Weimaraners)
- Signs: unproductive retching, distended abdomen, restlessness, collapse
- The stomach twists (volvulus), cutting off blood supply to the stomach and spleen
- Emergency surgery is required to untwist the stomach and tack it in place
- Preventive gastropexy surgery is recommended for at-risk breeds
What is GDV?
GDV starts when the stomach fills with gas (dilatation), often after eating a large meal, exercising after eating, or drinking large amounts of water. The full stomach then twists on its axis (volvulus). The twist traps gas and food, blocks the esophagus and duodenum, and compresses major blood vessels. Blood flow to the stomach wall, spleen, and eventually the heart is compromised. Tissue dies, toxins release, cardiac arrhythmias develop, and shock causes death.
Risk Factors
Breed risk: Great Danes (highest risk), Saint Bernards, Weimaraners, Irish Setters, Gordon Setters, Standard Poodles, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Old English Sheepdogs. Risk increases with age. Other factors: eating one large meal daily, eating rapidly, exercising vigorously before or after eating, drinking large volumes of water after eating, stress/anxiety, and having a first-degree relative with GDV.
Symptoms and Emergency Response
Classic signs: unproductive retching or vomiting (nothing comes up, or only foam), restlessness and pacing, drooling, distended or tight abdomen (like a drum), rapid breathing, pale gums, weakness, and collapse. If you see these signs, GO TO THE VET IMMEDIATELY. Do not call and wait for a callback. Do not give food, water, or medication. Do not try to relieve gas yourself. Every minute counts.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment requires emergency stabilization (IV fluids, decompression of stomach via tube or needle) followed by surgery to untwist the stomach, assess tissue viability, remove dead tissue, remove the spleen if necrotic, and perform gastropexy (tacking the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent future twisting). Preventive gastropexy can be done during spay/neuter in at-risk breeds. Feed 2-3 smaller meals daily, avoid exercise 1 hour before and 2 hours after eating.
Quand Aller chez le Vétérinaire
- Unproductive retching or dry heaving
- Distended, tight abdomen
- Restlessness and inability to get comfortable
- Pale gums or rapid heart rate
- Collapse or weakness
- ANY suspicion of bloat in a large, deep-chested breed
Comment le Centre Royal Peut Aider
RVC is equipped for GDV emergencies 24/7. If you suspect bloat, come immediately or call +853 6677 6611 while en route. Do not delay.
Cet article est à titre éducatif uniquement. Contactez le Centre Royal au +853 6677 6611.