GVD is identified on radiographs by which feature?

• A. Fracture lines
• B. Osteophyte formation
• C. Compartmentalization
• D. Soft tissue swelling

Answer: (C)

Gastric dilatation-volvulus twists the stomach along its long axis, which often creates multiple distinct gas-filled compartments within the stomach on radiographs. This compartmentalized appearance—gas in separated pockets rather than one single large bubble—is a telltale sign of the stomach being rotated and obstructed, and it helps distinguish GDV from simple distention.

Other signs, like fracture lines, osteophyte formation, or soft tissue swelling, point to bone injury, degenerative joint disease, or nonspecific inflammation, and do not specifically indicate a twisted, compartmentalized stomach.