Abdominal Adhesions ( Disease & Conditions, Treatments & Procedures , Symptoms )
Abdominal adhesions refer to the formation of scar tissue between abdominal organs and tissues, which causes them to adhere to one another. After surgery, infection, inflammation, or trauma, adhesions can develop and cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling, constipation, vertigo, and infertility. In severe instances, adhesions may obstruct the bowel or impair organ function, necessitating medical intervention. Surgical procedures, medications, and noninvasive therapies such as physical therapy and massage are available as treatment options.
This article covers the following topics :
What is a stomach adhesion?
Adhesions in the abdomen are bands of fibrous scar tissue that can form between abdominal organs and tissues. These adhesions can cause organs and tissues to adhere to one another, resulting in a variety of symptoms, such as pain, bloating, constipation, vertigo, and infertility. After surgery, infection, inflammation, or trauma, adhesions can develop and may necessitate medical intervention if they cause bowel obstruction or interfere with organ function. Abdominal adhesions may be treated with surgery, medication, or noninvasive therapies such as physical therapy or massage.
What exactly is an abdominal cavity?
The abdominal cavity is located beneath the ribcage and above the pelvic. It is bordered by the abdominal musculature and the vertebrae and contains numerous vital organs, such as the stomach, liver, pancreas, small and large intestines, spleen, and kidneys. The organs and structures within the abdominal cavity are lined by a thin layer of tissue called the peritoneum, which lines the abdominal cavity. It protects the organs and facilitates their movement and function.
Why do abdominal adhesions occur?
There are numerous causes of abdominal adhesions, including:
1-Surgery: The most prevalent cause of abdominal adhesions is abdominal surgery, as scar tissue can form as part of the body’s recovery process.
2-Infections: Infections in the abdominal cavity, such as peritonitis, can lead to the formation of adhesions
3-Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can induce abdominal inflammation that leads to adhesion formation.
4-Trauma: Adhesions can be caused by abdominal trauma, such as a car accident or a fall.
5- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy utilized to treat abdominal malignancies can result in fibrosis and adhesions.
6- Endometriosis: Endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue that borders the uterus develops outside of it, can lead to the formation of adhesions in the abdominal cavity.
7-Abdominal adhesions are a potential result of any condition that causes inflammation or injury to the abdominal cavity.
What are the signs and symptoms?
In some cases, abdominal adhesions may not cause any symptoms, but when they do, the symptoms can vary depending on the adhesions’ location and severity. Common abdominal adhesion symptoms include:
Adhesions can produce acute, mild, or cramping abdominal discomfort that may be chronic or intermittent.
Adhesions can induce abdominal edema and/or enlargement.
Changes in gastrointestinal habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, may be caused by adhesions.
Nausea and regurgitation can be caused by adhesions, particularly after a meal.
In some instances, adhesions can cause infertility by obstructing the fallopian tubes or preventing the ovaries from moving.
Bowel obstruction can be caused by severe adhesions, which can result in abdominal pain, regurgitation, and constipation.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment.
How do abdominal adhesions become identified?
Typically, abdominal adhesions are diagnosed by combining a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests.
A healthcare provider may palpate the abdomen during a physical examination to detect areas of tenderness or edema. They may also use a stethoscope to listen to the abdomen to check for gastrointestinal sounds and determine the location of discomfort.
In the medical history, prior abdominal surgery or trauma that may have caused adhesions may be documented.
Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can assist visualize the internal structures of the abdomen and detect the presence of adhesions. Laparoscopy is a procedure in which a small camera is inserted through a tiny incision in the abdomen to directly observe adhesions.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be caused by abdominal adhesions, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Early detection and treatment can assist in preventing complications and enhancing outcomes.
Is treatment necessary for abdominal adhesions?
The necessity of treatment for abdominal adhesions depends on the severity of your symptoms and the degree to which the adhesions impair your quality of life. Mild adhesions may not require treatment in some instances, whereas extensive adhesions may necessitate surgical intervention.
If adhesions are causing severe pain or interfering with organ function, your healthcare provider may recommend adhesion removal surgery. An open incision or a laparoscopic procedure, in which tiny incisions are made and a small camera is used to guide surgical instruments, can be used to perform surgery.
Abdominal adhesions can be treated non-surgically with medications such as anti-inflammatory medicines or pain relievers, physical therapy, and massage. These treatments can aid in symptom management and enhance quality of life.
It is essential to discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider in order to determine the best course of action based on your individual circumstances.
Can adhesions of the abdomen be prevented?
It is difficult to completely prevent abdominal adhesions, but there are measures that can reduce the risk of their formation. Here are some helpful suggestions:
1-Follow postoperative directions: It is essential to meticulously adhere to your surgeon’s instructions if you have had abdominal surgery to reduce the risk of adhesions. During the recuperating process, this may include avoiding strenuous activity or hefty hauling.
2-Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis: Conditions that induce abdominal inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can increase the risk of adhesions. Following your physician’s recommendations for reducing inflammation can help reduce the risk.
3-Consider laparoscopic surgery: Traditional open surgery is more invasive than laparoscopic surgery, which may increase the risk of adhesion formation.
4-Treat infections with promptness: Adhesions in the abdominal cavity can be caused by infections. Immediate treatment of infections can aid in risk reduction.
5-Seek medical care for abdominal injuries: Abdominal trauma, such as a car accident or a fall, can lead to the formation of adhesions. Adhesions can be prevented by obtaining immediate medical attention for any abdominal injury.
These measures may reduce the likelihood of adhesions, but they do not guarantee their complete elimination. If you are concerned about your likelihood of developing abdominal adhesions, you should consult a healthcare professional.
When should medical care be sought?
If you experience any of the following symptoms that may be associated with abdominal adhesions, you should seek medical attention:
1-Acute or chronic abdominal discomfort
2-Abdominal bloating or enlargement
3-Changes in digestive habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
4-Nausaea or emesis
5-Infertility or pregnancy difficulties
This condition can result in severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately, as they may indicate a more serious condition that requires treatment. In certain instances, abdominal adhesions can result in bowel obstruction or other complications requiring immediate medical intervention.
If you have a history of abdominal surgery or abdominal trauma, or if you have been diagnosed with an inflammatory condition such as Crohn’s disease, it is essential that you discuss your risk for abdominal adhesions with your healthcare provider and take any recommended screening or preventative measures.