An 8-year-old FS Great Dane dog with a history of urinary tract infection and VPCs was presented for evaluation of lethargy and weakness in the hind limbs. Elevated ALP activity and BUN was present on serum biochemistry.
An 8-year-old FS Great Dane dog with a history of urinary tract infection and VPCs was presented for evaluation of lethargy and weakness in the hind limbs. Elevated ALP activity and BUN was present on serum biochemistry.
Strong suspicion of gastric torsion with malpositioning of the spleen. Secondary VPC with cardiac hypocontractility.
The abdomen presented malpositioned spleen with a dent and serpentine type position. The splenic hilus was deviated caudally with micronodular changes and mild hypersplenism. The pylorus at the right intercostal approach was not in the normal position and could not be located. The normal pyloric outflow position was occupied by descending duodenum and jejunum. Material within the stomach and fundus was imaged. However, a large amount of artifact was noted. This is most consistent with gastric rotation with splenic malposition.
The patient was euthanized.
Radiographs were performed after the ultrasound in which gastric dilatation and volvulus was confirmed. IV fluid support and exploratory surgery would be recommended with gastric biopsies, evacuating of any contents and gastropexy procedure. Splenectomy will likely be necessary. VPC control will likely be necessary during the procedure.
No images of the spleen are available.
Cardiac pathology – dilated cardiomyopathy, pericardial effusion, myocardial weakness; Gastric torsion; Neoplasia; Renal pathology – chronic kidney disease, pyelonephritis, neoplasia; DJD/spinal disease
None.
