Background and aims: The strength of intestinal anastomoses is relatively low in the first days after operation, possibly as a result of localized degradation of the supporting matrix by enzymes from the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family. This study examined whether BB-94, a broad spectrum inhibitor of MMP activity, could enhance anastomotic strength.
Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats received anastomoses in both ileum and colon. From the day before operation onwards, animals were treated daily with BB-94 intraperitoneally at a dose of 30 mg/kg or with saline only. Rats were killed 1, 3, or 7 days after operation, and anastomotic bursting pressure and breaking strength were measured. On day 3 anastomotic hydroxyproline levels were measured, and MMP (gelatinase) activity was analyzed by gelatin zymography.
Results: BB-94 strongly enhanced wound strength, but only on day 3, when it was at its lowest. Daily administration increased median colonic and ileal breaking strength by 27% and 108%, respectively; colonic and ileal bursting pressure were increased by 54% and 58%, respectively. MMP activities were significantly lowered in anastomotic extracts from the rats treated with BB-94.
Conclusion: Administration of BB-94 enhances anastomotic strength. Specific inhibition of MMP activity should be investigated further as a means to preserve anastomotic integrity.