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Updated: Apr 11, 2026
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A Murine Model of Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
Published on: December 18, 2017
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The association between sleeve gastrectomy and histopathologic changes consistent with esophagitis in a rodent model
Maria S Altieri1, Kenneth R Shroyer2, Aurora Pryor1
1Division of Advanced Gastrointestinal, Foregut, Bariatric and General Surgery, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, New York.
Summary
Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in rats led to more severe esophagitis, suggesting a link between this bariatric surgery and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Further research is needed to understand this association in humans.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Bariatric Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- The relationship between sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is not fully understood.
- This study investigates the impact of SG on esophagitis development and severity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on the development and severity of esophagitis.
- To assess the association between SG and gastroesophageal reflux in a rodent model.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and divided into three groups: HFD only, sham operation + HFD, and SG + HFD.
- Esophageal tissues were histologically assessed for reflux-induced inflammation (esophagitis) at 12 weeks.
- Reflux severity was graded, and statistical analyses were performed to compare groups and assess confounding variables.
Main Results:
- Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) significantly increased reflux severity compared to sham and HFD-only groups (21.1% vs. 0% vs. 4.5%, P = .02).
- The mean severity score for severe esophagitis was significantly higher in the SG group (P = .0202).
- No significant differences were observed in negative, mild, or moderate esophagitis across groups. Final weight and weight change did not affect esophagitis severity.
Conclusions:
- Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is independently associated with histopathologic changes indicative of severe esophagitis.
- These findings suggest SG may exacerbate or cause gastroesophageal reflux, leading to severe esophagitis in this animal model.
