Radiographic findings in dogs with 360 degrees gastric dilatation and volvulus

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening emergency that requires urgent intervention. Radiographic features associated with 360-GDV in dogs have not been investigated. The aim of this retrospective observational study is to describe radiographic features and clinical variables in dogs affected with 360-GDV and to report agreement rates between different radiologists. We also report the sensitivity and specificity of radiographs to diagnose 360-GDV in dogs. Confirmed 360-GDV cases were retrieved, and the radiographic findings were compared with dogs presenting with gastric dilatation (GD) and 180-GDV. Images were reviewed and graded by three blinded board-certified radiologists. A total of 16 dogs with confirmed 360-GDV were identified. The median age was 10 years old (2-13 years). The sensitivity for detection of 360-GDV ranged between 43.7% and 50%, and the specificity between 84.6% and 92.1%. Interobserver agreement on final diagnosis was substantial (Kappa = 0.623; 0.487-0.760, 95% CI). The highest agreement rate was in cases of 180-GDV (87%), followed by the GD cases (72%) and 360-GDV (46%). Severe esophageal distension and absence of small intestinal dilation were the only radiographic features specifically associated with 360-GDV. A similar pyloric position was found between GD and 360-GDV. Additional radiographic variables that could help differentiate GD from 360-GDV include the degree of gastric distension and the peritoneal serosal contrast. Two cases with 360-GDV were misdiagnosed by the three radiologists as GD. In conclusion, radiographically, 360-GDV cases can reassemble GD and vice versa. Radiologists and clinicians should be aware of the low sensitivity of radiographs for the detection of 360-GDV.