Objective To observe the relationship between dynamic expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 protein and water contents in perihematoma, and the effect of sodium aescine in rats with intracerebral hemorrhage(ICH). Methods 250 Wistar rats were assigned randomly to four groups: normal control group (10 rats), sham operation group (80 rats), ICH group (80 rats) and sodium aescine treating group (80 rats). The water contents in perihematom and the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein were measured respectively at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 120 h, 7 d and 15 d after operation in each group. Results Neurological function deficit in sodium aescine treating group was improved compared with ICH group in 6 h~7 d (P