Postoperative Ileus Murine Model

Most patients experience postoperative ileus (POI) after surgery, which is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and hospitalization time. POI is a consequence of mechanical damage during surgery, resulting in disruption of motility in the gastrointestinal tract. The mechanisms of POI are related to aberrant neuronal sensitivity, impaired epithelial barrier function, and increased local inflammation. However, the details remain enigmatic. Therefore, experimental murine models are crucial for elucidating the pathophysiology and mechanism of POI injury and for the development of novel therapies.

Here, we introduce a murine model of POI generated via intestinal manipulation (IM) that is similar to clinical surgery; this is achieved by mechanical damage to the small intestine by massaging the abdomen 1-3 times with a cotton swab. IM delayed gastrointestinal transit 24 h after surgery, as assessed by FITC-dextran gavage and fluorescence detection of the segmental digestive tract. Moreover, tissue swelling of the submucosa and immune cell infiltration were investigated by hematoxylin and eosin staining and flow cytometry. Proper pressure of the IM and a hyperemic effect on the intestine are critical for the procedure. This murine model of POI can be utilized to study the mechanisms of intestinal damage and recovery after abdominal surgery.