Mullen et al: Use of real-time near-infrared fluorescence to assess gastric viability in dogs with gastric dilatation volvulus: A case-control study
Veterinary Surgery 4, 2024

🔍 Key Findings

• NIRF altered surgical strategy in 3 of 20 GDV dogs, identifying necrosis not appreciated subjectively.
• Fundic fluorescence <10% indicated histologically confirmed gastric necrosis.
• In 1 dog, NIRF revealed nonviability despite the surgeon’s impression of viability.
• Staple line fluorescence resembled viable tissue in the only stapled gastrectomy, suggesting preservation of perfusion.
• GDV dogs (even “viable”) showed lower fluorescence vs. healthy controls, indicating subclinical vascular compromise.
• Histology confirmed full-thickness necrosis in all 4 dogs with NIRF-defined nonviability.
• Pre-op lactate was significantly higher in nonviable GDV dogs (8.55 vs 4.89 mmol/L, p=0.03).
• No complications were reported from ICG use; imaging was safe and repeatable.