DEFINITION

An adhesion is a band of scar tissue that usually joins two separate internal body surfaces together.

DESCRIPTION

Adhesions can occur anywhere in the body (the most common sites being the stomach, pelvis and heart) and can be as thin as plastic wrap, or they may appear as thick, fibrous bands.

Types of adhesions
Abdominal
Adhesions often occur following pelvic and abdominal surgery. Most adhesions are painless and do not cause complications, however, Adhesions can interfere with a woman's reproductive potential. Additionally, Adhesions may be associated with issues such as pelvic pain, abnormalities of bowel function, and small bowel obstruction.

Pelvic
Adhesions can form in the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes or bladder. Pelvic inflammatory disease can lead to the development of adhesions within the fallopian tubes, which can result in ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

Heart
Heart adhesions can be caused by heart infections (e.g. rheumatic fever), leading to decreased heart efficiency.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

There are often no signs or symptoms associated with Adhesions. In other cases, however, Adhesions can cause pain by pulling nerves e.g. Adhesions above the liver may cause pain with deep breathing; intestinal adhesions may cause pain during exercise or stretching; or adhesions within the heart may cause chest pain.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

As with all medical conditions consult your Doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Your Doctor can identify any underlying causes e.g. endometriosis or infection. Blood tests, x-rays or a CT scan may be required to determine the extent of an adhesion-related problem. Most adhesions, however, are diagnosed during surgery eg. laparoscopy.

Treatment may involve adhesiolysis (cutting and releasing) the adhesions during a laparoscopy procedure or treating the adhesions during a laparotomy or your Doctor may prescribe corticosteroids, anthistamines or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

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