This case report describes the anaesthetic management of two dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) syndrome. Both patients received a partial intravenous anaesthesia (PIVA) protocol combined with a multimodal perioperative analgesic strategy. Patients were admitted to the emergency department due to restlessness, abdominal distension, and non-productive retching lasting two and three hours, respectively. Historytaking and clinical examination findings suggested GDV, which was confirmed via radiographic study. After initial stabilization, an exploratory laparotomy was performed to correct the condition through gastropexy, with an additional splenectomy in one patient. A PIVA protocol was implemented with infusions of propofol, fentanyl, ketamine, and lidocaine, complemented by inhalation anaesthesia with isoflurane. Cardiopulmonary parameters were monitored intraoperatively without significant alterations. Pain was assessed using the Glasgow Pain Scale in the immediate postoperative period, indicating adequate analgesic coverage. No cardiac arrhythmias were detected, and the patients were discharged after 48 hours without complications. In conclusion, the PIVA and multimodal perioperative analgesia protocols apparently resulted effectively for the GDV management and preserved the lives of patients. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings and optimize anaesthetic protocols for these critical cases.
Herrera et al. (Fri,) studied this question.