Changes in the levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and 9 in patients with pressure ulcers using an alternating pressure relief bed mattress / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To observe the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and 9 (MMP-2, MMP-9) in wound tissue and wound effusion in patients with chronic pressure ulcers treated with an alternating pres- sure relief mattress,and to correlate these observations with wound healing.Methods A total of 24 patients with chronic pressure ulcers were recruited and divided into two groupsone treated with an alternating pressure relief mat- tress and the other without,in addition to conventional treatment for pressure ulcers.The expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the wound tissue and its exudate were amplified with a reverse transeriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and analyzed using quantitative gelatin zymography.Wound healing was also observed and assessed using the pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH).Results The wounds were observed to heal well in both groups,as indicated by a significant decrease in the PUSH scores.Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the two groups with regard to the PUSH score on the 21st day after initiation of the study.With the healing of the pressure ulcers,the expression both MMP-2 and MMP-9 decreased.On the seventh and the 21st days,the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in patients treated with an alternating pressure relief mattress was significantly less than in those without the mattress.Conclusion MMP-2 and MMP-9 can be biomarkers for the healing of pressure ulcers. An alternating pressure relief mattress is helpful for treating pressure ulcers.