What Causes Intestinal Adhesions

Intestinal adhesions are a relatively common complication, particularly in the field of surgery. They typically develop following some form of damage to the intestines. For example, conditions such as peritonitis or previous abdominal surgeries can lead to this issue. When the outermost layer of the intestine, known as the peritoneum, is exposed to air or affected by inflammatory factors—such as pus or other secretions from infections like appendicitis—the surface of the intestinal lining can become irritated and damaged.

Understanding the Development of Adhesions

This kind of tissue injury triggers the body's natural healing response. However, during the healing process, fibrous bands of scar tissue can form between the intestinal loops or between the intestine and other abdominal organs. These bands, known as adhesions, can develop into a web-like structure that binds tissues together abnormally.

Potential Complications of Intestinal Adhesions

While intestinal adhesions themselves are not inherently dangerous, they can lead to more serious problems. One of the main concerns is that these adhesions can interfere with the normal movement of the intestines. This disruption may cause the bowel to twist or kink, potentially leading to a blockage known as bowel obstruction.

When this occurs, normal digestion is impaired, and symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and vomiting may appear. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove or manage the adhesions and restore proper intestinal function.