Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice
Published on: August 25, 2015
A canine model of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
R L McMahon1, A Ali, E G Chekan
1Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Room 3454A Duke North, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Background:
Although a variety of antireflux procedures and medications are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), reliable large-animal models of GERD that can be used to objectively compare the efficacy of these treatments are lacking.
Methods:
Esophageal manometry and 24-h gastroesophageal pH monitoring with event data were performed in 18 mongrel dogs with a cervical esophagopexy. We then calculated a modified DeMeester score: The Duke Canine reflux score (DCR). Thereafter, the animals underwent a 4-cm anterior distal esophageal myotomy, incision of the left diaphragmatic crus, and intrathoracic gastric cardiopexy. Postoperative 24-h pH and manometry were obtained 2 weeks later.
Results:
The postoperative 24-h pH results showed a significant increase in the mean DCR score (5.9 +/- 4.5 vs 84.9 +/- 56.1, p < 0.0002), and manometry indicated a significant decrease in mean lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure (7.1 +/- 2.9 vs 3.2 +/- 2.5 mmHg, p < 0.0001).
Conclusion:
This technique reliably creates a canine model of GERD.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
01:27Esophageal Achalasia