Current evidence supporting simultaneous prophylactic gastropexy in canine patients undergoing complete splenectomy

PICO question In dogs that have undergone a complete splenectomy, does performing a concurrent gastropexy decrease the risk of future gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) development when compared to not performing a concurrent gastropexy?   Clinical bottom line Category of research question Risk The number and type of study designs reviewed Five papers were critically reviewed which included one retrospective case series, one retrospective case-control study, and three combined retrospective cohort and cross-sectional survey studies Strength of evidence Weak Outcomes reported In dogs that have had a complete splenectomy, there is no conclusive evidence that prophylactic gastropexy decreases the risk of lifetime GDV development Conclusion Based on the limited information available, it is difficult to conclude if prophylactic gastropexy should be recommended routinely at the time of complete splenectomy   How to apply this evidence in practice The application of evidence into practice should take into account multiple factors, not limited to: individual clinical expertise, patient’s circumstances and owners’ values, country, location or clinic where you work, the individual case in front of you, the availability of therapies and resources. Knowledge Summaries are a resource to help reinforce or inform decision making. They do not override the responsibility or judgement of the practitioner to do what is best for the animal in their care.