Activity of metalloproteinases and adiponectin in obese patients-a possible factor of incisional hernias after bariatric procedures.

OBJECTIVE

Metalloproteinases are a key component of the pathogenesis of abdominal hernias. Obesity is considered a risk factor in herniogenesis and hernia recurrence. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum concentrations of metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, MMP-13, and adiponectin in morbidly obese and non-overweight controls.

METHODS

The participants were recruited from among patients undergoing bariatric and non-bariatric surgery and divided into two groups: I (body mass index (BMI)≥35 kg/m2, n=40) and II (BMI<25 kg/m2, n=30). Serum concentrations of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13, and adiponectin were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference between groups was observed for MMP-2 concentration. The median MMP-9 concentration was higher in the obese group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Median MMP-13 concentrations did not differ between groups. Serum adiponectin concentration was insignificantly higher in the non-obese group.

CONCLUSIONS

The elevated serum MMP-2 and MMP-9 concentrations in obese individuals may be related to the higher incidence of incisional hernias in this population.