Abdominal adhesions are fibrous bands that form in between organs and abdominal tissues. It is important to note that these bands are trivial and do not cause any adverse effects but there are cases in which strong bands form which causes obstructions. The adhesions can also cause the organs to adhere to each other.
Possible causes of abdominal adhesions
The main cause of abdominal adhesions is a surgical procedure to the abdomen. It is believed that many individuals who had abdominal surgery end up with adhesions at one point.
The risk factor is increased among those who had surgery to the lower region of the pelvis, abdomen or any form of bowel surgery or gynecological procedures. The abdominal adhesions tend to grow and tighten over time which leads to complications years after the surgery. Some of the causes of abdominal adhesions include:
- Incisions in the tissues especially the internal organs
- Drying out of the internal organs
- Blood clots that were not properly rinsed at the time of surgery
- If medical equipment or materials such as surgical gloves or gauze are exposed to the tissues
Indications
In most cases of abdominal adhesions, there are no symptoms but the individual can experience intense pain in the abdomen or pelvic region. Remember that this pain can be mistaken for other conditions such as appendicitis.
Management
It is important to note that treatment is not required for abdominal adhesions since they are usually asymptomatic and do not cause any issues. On the other hand, surgery is the only way to get rid of the adhesions if they start to cause significant abdominal pain.
Remember that surgery has its share of risks for more adhesions to develop which is why it is avoided. If an adhesion triggers intestinal obstruction, surgery is required. When it comes to a partial obstruction, it is usually relieved using dietary modifications.