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Vets urged to be aware of GDV in rabbits

VetCT and Exotics Vet Support are raising awareness about the potential for delayed or misdiagnosis of acute surgical abdominal conditions in rabbits

FIGURE (1) A CT scan showing GDV in a rabbit. The pylorus (lime green star) denoted by the thick pyloric wall is located on the left side of the abdomen and the fundus (dark pink star) is right laterally located

VetCT and Exotics Vet Support are raising awareness about the potential for delayed or misdiagnosis of acute surgical abdominal conditions in rabbits, such as gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV).

Use of CT (figure 1) is encouraged for rapid diagnosis to direct early, targeted surgical intervention and improve outcomes.

Gastric dilation is a common condition in rabbits, however incidence of GDV is poorly documented.

Dr Dean Felkler, founder and CEO of Exotic Vet Support and senior clinician at Tai Wai Small Animal and Exotic Hospital, highlighted the importance of accurate and early diagnosis in a recent case of a seven year old rabbit that was presented for anorexia.

He said: “A full diagnostic investigation was performed. From the radiographs it is difficult to appreciate the GDV. However, on the CT scan, reported by VetCT, it was very obvious when compared to the normal stomach orientation.”

After initial stabilisation the patient underwent surgery to re-orientate the stomach and an incisional gastropexy was performed.

Following surgery the rabbit recovered well and was eating and passing faeces within 24 hours.

Use of CT is increasingly recognised as vital for early, accurate diagnosis of pathology in rabbits, including conditions such as GDV, appendicitis and rhinitis.

Dr David Reese, Director of VetCT Australia and exotics expert explains: “We are able to identify several life-threatening pathologies much more accurately with CT than radiographs.

“This is vital for early correction of acute surgical abdominal conditions to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.”

VetCT offers rapid teleradiology turnaround times around the clock, including detailed CT reports. The company is encouraging veterinary teams to reimagine imaging for their practice, increasing the accessibility of advanced modalities with remote radiologists to report on images, improving diagnostic accuracy, confidence and peace of mind.

VetCT is offering a free trial of its specialist teleradiology and teleconsulting services.

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