Roles of matrix metalloproteinases in the etiology of inguinal hernia.

INTRODUCTION: The fascia transversalis is accepted as one of the anatomical structures that can prevent hernia formation. Degradation of collagen within the fascia transversalis is one of the known reasons for the development of inguinal hernia. In the present study, we investigated the roles of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), specifically MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 in the etiology of inguinal hernia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study included 60 inguinal hernia patients: 30 patients had indirect inguinal hernia and 30 patients had direct inguinal hernia. An additional 30 patients operated for reasons other than hernia in the inguinal canal were included as a control group. All patients underwent operations at Istanbul Training and Research Hospital between 1 June 2009 and 1 December 2009. Tissue specimens were taken from the fascia transversalis from patient and control groups during the operation, and MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9 values were investigated using immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS: Significantly higher values of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, were found in inguinal hernia cases than in the control group (P = 0.0001, P = 0.007, P = 0.021, respectively).

CONCLUSION: Increased MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9 values play a role in the etiology of inguinal hernia. Since weakening may also occur in other tissues in addition to the floor of inguinal canal in inguinal hernia patients, the association of arterial aneurisms and connective tissue diseases should also be investigated in these patients.