Laparoscopic Assisted Gastropexies are a relatively new, less invasive way of surgically preventing a life threatening GDV in at risk breeds.  A prophylactic gastropexy involves tacking the outer lining of the stomach to the abdominal wall, creating a strong permanent attachment.  Once healed, this strong bond prevents the stomach from twisting on itself.  Traditionally, having a gastropexy performed on your dog would require a full abdominal incision which could lead to longer recovery times and more post-operative discomfort.  In fact, prophylactic gastropexies have been recommended as worthwhile for years but the invasiveness of the procedure deterred most people from having them done.  Laparoscopic gastropexies allow us to tack the stomach to the abdominal wall through a very small incision (approx. 2" long).  This minimally invasive approach leads to less post-operative discomfort and a much faster recovery time.