Abdominal Adhesions

This week we discuss Abdominal adhesions.  These are bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal tissues and organs. Like the name suggests, the tissue can cause your organs to “adhere,” or stick together. Adhesions commonly form after abdominal surgery. Typically, you don’t need treatment unless they cause a complication, like a small bowel obstruction.

Abdominal adhesions are bands of scar tissue that form between the organs in your belly and pelvis. Mainly, they form between loops of your small intestine. They can also form between an organ and the wall of your abdominal cavity.

Your abdominal cavity contains your:

• Digestive system, including your stomach and intestines.
• Female reproductive organs.
• Kidneys and adrenal glands.
• Liver.
• Pancreas.
• Spleen.

Adhesions occur when there’s injury or inflammation in your abdomen. They can even form from normal handling during surgery. In fact, they’re most common after abdominal surgery. As a natural part of healing, scar tissue forms that can cause tissues to stiffen and stick together (“adhere”).

How common are abdominal adhesions?

Abdominal adhesions are the most common consequence of having surgery on your abdomen. The majority of people develop adhesions after abdominal surgery. But most people don’t need treatment unless they’re experiencing symptoms.

Adhesions are also the most common cause of a small bowel obstruction. A bowel obstruction is a medical emergency that involves complete or partial blockage in your intestines.

(credits Cleveland Clinic)