Which radiographic feature is characteristic of GVD?

The "Popeye's arm" appearance is a radiographic feature associated with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), which is a life-threatening condition often seen in deep-chested dog breeds. This specific appearance signifies the rotation of the stomach, leading to a pronounced, tapered proximal end and a more distended distal end on imaging, resembling the forearm of the cartoon character Popeye. This characteristic appearance is crucial for veterinarians to identify GDV quickly, as timely intervention is necessary to prevent severe complications and improve survival rates.

The other choices do not specifically describe features associated with GDV. Increased opacity might suggest other conditions affecting the abdominal organs, hyperextension refers to joint positioning that is not indicative of GDV, and joint effusion typically relates to joint diseases rather than abdominal conditions like GDV. Understanding the unique radiographic presentations of specific conditions helps in accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.