Cardiovascular monitoring of the canine gastric dilatation volvulus patient

Abstract

Gastric dilatation volvulus is an acute and life-threatening disease requiring immediate intervention and intensive nursing. The presence of a large gas-filled stomach and subsequent twisting of the stomach results in compression of surrounding organs, hypovolaemic and cardiogenic shock. Cardiovascular effects of gastric dilatation volvulus include cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, electrolyte and acid–base imbalance, and ischaemia-reperfusion injury. Understanding the negative effects on the cardiovascular system will allow detection and early intervention should complications arise.