Usually the surgeon will perform a gastropexy at this time to prevent recurrence. Death loss due to GVD is very high for several reasons. Often the owner delays in presenting the dog because they are unaware of the seriousness of the condition. Also, once the stomach has undergone volvulus, many metabolic poisons build up in the body resulting in damage to the heart muscle, stomach wall, liver and spleen. Frequently these poisons will cause the heart to stop during surgery or they may circulate for several days post-operatively and continue to pose a threat.
Many veterinarians suggest that a preventative gastropexy be done.
This prevents the stomach from twisting. This surgery can be done in conjunction with a spay.