What Are the Indications for Surgical Treatment of Intestinal Adhesions?

Intestinal adhesions are commonly managed with conservative treatments in clinical settings. Patients are typically advised to undergo bowel rest, fluid restriction, infection prevention, and nutritional support to alleviate symptoms. However, if these non-surgical methods fail to provide significant relief from abdominal pain, or if the patient develops signs such as bowel distension, fluid accumulation, or signs of strangulated obstruction, prompt surgical intervention becomes necessary.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery is generally indicated when conservative treatments do not improve symptoms or when complications arise. These complications may include persistent bowel obstruction, severe pain, or evidence of compromised blood flow to a segment of the intestine. In such cases, timely surgical evaluation is crucial to prevent life-threatening conditions like bowel ischemia or perforation.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Exploration

Compared to traditional open surgery, laparoscopic exploration offers several advantages. It is less invasive, reduces postoperative pain, and shortens hospital stays. More importantly, it significantly lowers the recurrence rate of adhesive small bowel obstruction. By allowing a clearer visualization of the abdominal cavity, laparoscopy enables surgeons to precisely identify and manage adhesions without causing further tissue damage.

Treatment Approach for Mild Bowel Distension

In patients with minimal bowel distension, laparoscopic evaluation is often the preferred diagnostic and therapeutic approach. This method allows for targeted intervention, such as lysis of adhesions or repositioning of trapped intestinal segments. As a result, many patients experience improved outcomes and a faster return to normal digestive function.