Bilateral incisional gastropexies for treatment of intermittent gastroesophageal intussusception in a puppy

Abstract

Intermittent gastroesophageal intussusception was diagnosed in an 8-week-old puppy that had had recurrent regurgitation since it was acquired at 6 weeks old. Abnormalities were not detected on survey radiographs or positive-contrast esophagograms; the intussusception was evident only during endoscopic examination of the esophagus. Treatment consisted of bilateral incisional gastropexies attaching the gastric fundus and body to the left and right body walls, respectively. Clinical signs resolved completely after surgery. Gastroesophageal intussusception is rare in dogs, and most dogs with gastroesophageal intussuception have severe clinical abnormalities, including collapse, respiratory difficulties, and shock. However, for dogs with intermittent gastroesophageal intussusception, the only clinical sign may be recurrent regurgitation. Bilateral incisional gastropexies appear to be useful for preventing recurrence of gastroesophageal intussusception in dogs.