gastropexy

Gastropexy is a surgical procedure that fixes the stomach in place by suturing it to an adjacent structure, typically the abdominal wall or diaphragm, to limit mobility and prevent rotation. It is most commonly performed to treat or prevent gastric volvulus, a condition in which the stomach twists on its axis, potentially cutting off blood supply and causing obstruction. In humans, gastropexy may be used during repair of paraesophageal or hiatal hernias, after recurrent volvulus, or as part of broader abdominal procedures.

Indications for gastropexy include acute or chronic gastric volvulus, prevention of volvulus in patients with anatomical risk factors, and adjunctive management during certain surgeries that involve the stomach or diaphragmatic hiatus. In veterinary medicine, gastropexy is frequently used to prevent gastric torsion in predisposed dogs and is sometimes performed alongside spaying or other abdominal procedures.

Techniques for gastropexy vary and can be performed openly or laparoscopically. Common approaches include anterior gastropexy, which secures the stomach to the anterior abdominal wall, and fixation to other structures such as the diaphragm, falciform ligament, omentum, or posterior abdominal wall. In veterinary practice, belt-loop gastropexy and circumcostal techniques are widely used.

Outcomes and complications: When appropriately selected, gastropexy reduces the risk of recurrent volvulus and associated morbidity. Potential complications include wound infection, leakage or fistula at the fixation site, peritonitis, bleeding, injury to nearby organs, seroma, and, in some cases, recurrence of volvulus.

Recovery and prognosis: Postoperative care involves pain management, gradual reintroduction of diet, and activity restriction until healing is complete. Laparoscopic approaches may offer shorter recovery times compared with open surgery.