When groups of internal scar tissue band together, the result is an abdominal adhesion. While most people believe that internal scar tissue is formed after surgery, there is no hard-and-fast rule for the formation of the initial scar tissue itself. Scar tissue is what develops when the body is trying to heal itself after infections, bleeding, bodily injuries, inflammatory diseases, chronic intestinal conditions, physical trauma, and radiation treatments, as well as after surgical procedures.
Common symptoms of an abdominal adhesion are severe abdominal pain, cramps, bowel problems such as constipation, and bouts of nausea accompanied by vomiting. In the event that the scar tissue wraps around a major organ, blood flow may be reduced or even cut off. This situation would require immediate surgical attention. Only intestinal blockages can be seen on X-rays or Ultrasounds. If you are experiencing abdominal pain, cramps, and vomiting, your Victorville General Surgeon may need to perform a minimal invasive exploratory procedure to confirm an adhesion.
Adhesion Removal Surgery
There are two minimally invasive techniques used for exploration and removal of abdominal adhesions. Your surgeon will determine the best technique based on where the adhesions are located and how large they are. Both operations are performed as an out-patient process. You will be given either a local or general anesthetic to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Both procedures will require about two hours for completion. You will need to have someone available to drive you home from the clinic or hospital.
Laparoscopy Procedure:
A small incision is made in the skin in the area of the adhesion where a surgical scope, with an attached camera, will be inserted into the opening. This allows the surgeon to confirm that there is an adhesion. If found, the surgeon will then insert a surgical instrument to cut and remove the adhesion. The instruments are removed, and the incision will be closed with a suture or surgical tape.
Laparotomy Procedure:
The surgeon follows the same techniques as for a laparoscopy procedure, but the incision is slightly larger so that there is direct observation of adhesion locations. The surgeon will then cut and remove the adhesion.
Post-Operative Care
Your surgeon will instruct you on post-operative care regarding the need for any pain medication, physical restrictions when you can return to work or your normal daily activities, and when to schedule your post-surgery office visit. The normal recovery time following adhesion surgery is 7 to 14 days.
