Obstructive Shock

Emergency and Critical CareAll SpeciesNew

Key Points

Obstructive shock is a life-threatening form of circulatory shock caused by a physical obstruction to venous return or cardiac output, preventing the heart from filling and/or ejecting blood effectively
- ↓ cardiac output leads to inadequate tissue perfusion
Possible causes include pericardial effusion, tension pneumothorax, pulmonary thromboembolism and gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)
Tachycardia, weak pulses, prolonged CRT and dull mentation are common clinical signs
Diagnosis is based on the clinical presentation of shock and rapid identification of an underlying obstruction
Definitive treatment requires relief of the obstruction
If the obstruction is not removed, shock can progress to multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and eventually death

Differential Diagnoses

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →