Postoperative Bowel Adhesion: Symptoms And What You Need To Know

After abdominal surgery, many patients develop bowel adhesions, which often lead to symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. These symptoms usually prompt individuals to seek medical attention. Physicians often suspect partial or complete bowel obstruction due to adhesions, especially if the patient has a history of prior surgeries.

Common Symptoms Of Bowel Adhesion

Complete bowel obstruction typically presents with severe symptoms including abdominal pain, distension, nausea, vomiting, and the complete cessation of bowel movements and gas passage. In some cases, after an initial blockage, patients may experience a sudden increase in bowel activity and gas release, which can be misleading.

Diagnosis And Contributing Factors

Diagnosing bowel obstruction usually involves evaluating the patient's surgical history, as adhesions are a common complication following abdominal procedures. However, even individuals without prior surgery can develop adhesions due to previous infections, inflammation, or other abdominal conditions. The severity and presentation of symptoms can vary depending on the extent of the adhesions, the type of previous surgical procedures, and the individual's overall health and physiology.

When Surgery Is Necessary

Recurrent bowel obstructions caused by adhesions may require surgical intervention, especially if conservative treatments fail, or if complications such as intestinal necrosis or complete blockage occur. Surgeons may consider minimally invasive techniques or alternative methods to reduce the risk of new adhesions forming.

Reducing The Risk Of Recurrence

It's important to note that repeat surgeries carry a higher risk of forming additional adhesions. Therefore, doctors often recommend exploring non-surgical options first or using advanced surgical techniques that minimize trauma to the abdominal tissues. Patients should discuss all available treatment options with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on their specific condition and medical history.