[Morphological changes in experimental duodenogastric reflux]

The model of a total duodenal-gastric reflux was developed in 20 dogs and morphological changes in the stomach were studied. 5 dogs served as control. Histologic changes occurred 3.5 months and 1 year after the operation were characterized by metachromasia, increased mucus formation, proliferation of epithelial and parietal cells, moderate inflammation. Process of the disease had fluctuations. 6 months after the operation 5 dogs were reoperated for the elimination of reflux and were observed for another 6 months. A complete reversibility of all changes was established. Bacteriological studies showed a considerable increase of bacteria population in the stomach and a pH increase. The authors suggest the term 'reflux gastropathy" to replace the term "alkaline reflux-gastritis".