Adhesions


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Adhesions


Adhesions are scar tissue that forms between two structures or organs inside the body that are not normally connected to each other. This tissue may bond to nearby surfaces because of inflammation, surgery, or trauma.

For example, scar tissue can develop on the abdominal organs after any abdominal surgery or as a result of inflammation or infection in the abdominal area. Abdominal adhesions can cause pain, blockage, or other problems, depending on where they are located.

If adhesions cause pain and other problems, surgery may be needed to cut the scar tissue and separate the structures or organs, although adhesions may recur after this surgery.

Credits


Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

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Last updated: May 25, 2007
Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors: Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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