Metalloproteinase-2 in failed back surgery syndrome caused by epidural fibrosis: can it play a role in persistent pain?

Purpose Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) occurs in 10–40% of patients treated surgically due to disk herniation (DH). There are several factors that can cause a predisposition FBSS, but the exact pathomechanism has not been elucidated. The aim this study was investigate Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and Tissue Inhibitor (TIMP-2) activities homogeneous group FBSS with epidural fibrosis comparison its activity DH. Methods DH, control (CG) groups consisted 30 subjects. were assessed clinically by Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF -MPQ), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Serum concentrations MMP-2 TIMP-2 measured using immunoenzymatic method. Results significantly higher expression (medians: 4797.49 vs. 2656.65; p < 0.0001) concentration 166.40 109.60; DH compared CG. Significantly (4219.95 150.17 = 0.0003) also found MMP-2, as MMP-2/TIMP-2, did change between MMP2 ( than FBSS. Conclusion indicate presence contribution Unchanged an insufficiency repair system both diseases. Lower reflect chronicity process.