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How to Treat Abdominal Adhesions?

Published in Adhesion Treatment 2 mins read

Abdominal adhesions are treated based on whether they cause symptoms or complications, with surgical intervention being the primary method when necessary.

Understanding Abdominal Adhesion Treatment

Adhesions, particularly in the abdominal region, are bands of scar tissue that can form after surgery or inflammation, potentially connecting organs or tissues that are normally separate. The approach to treating these adhesions depends entirely on their impact on a person's health.

When Treatment is Not Needed

If abdominal adhesions do not cause any symptoms or lead to complications, medical intervention is typically not required. Many individuals live with asymptomatic adhesions without ever needing treatment, as they do not pose an immediate health risk or discomfort.

When Treatment is Required

When abdominal adhesions cause symptoms (such as pain, bowel obstruction, or infertility) or lead to complications, doctors can release them. The primary method for treating symptomatic or complication-causing adhesions is through surgical intervention.

There are two main surgical approaches:

  • Laparoscopic Surgery: This is a minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made, and a thin, lighted tube with a camera (laparoscope) is used to view the adhesions. Specialized instruments are then inserted through other small incisions to carefully cut and separate the adhesions. This approach often results in less pain and a quicker recovery time compared to open surgery.
  • Open Surgery: This involves a larger incision in the abdomen to directly access and release the adhesions. Open surgery might be necessary for more complex or extensive adhesions, or in cases where laparoscopic surgery is not feasible or safe.

The decision on which surgical method to use depends on various factors, including the location, extent, and type of adhesions, as well as the patient's overall health.

To summarize the treatment approaches for abdominal adhesions:

Condition of Abdominal Adhesions Treatment Approach
Asymptomatic (No symptoms or complications) Typically No Treatment Needed: Adhesions are monitored, but no active medical or surgical intervention is usually performed unless their status changes.
Symptomatic (Causing pain, obstruction, etc.) or Causing Complications Surgical Intervention: Doctors can release the adhesions using either:
  • Laparoscopic Surgery (minimally invasive)
  • Open Surgery (traditional approach with a larger incision)
The goal is to sever the bands of scar tissue to free up organs and relieve symptoms.