In medicine, adhesion refers to the abnormal joining of two bodily tissues or organs that are not normally attached to each other. Adhesions occur when fibrous bands of scar tissue form between tissues or organs that are in close proximity, causing them to stick together.
Adhesions can occur in many parts of the body, including the abdominal cavity, pelvic cavity, and between tendons and bones. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as surgery, infection, inflammation, or radiation therapy. Adhesions can also develop as a result of trauma or injury.
Symptoms of adhesions can include chronic pain, cramping, and discomfort in the affected area, as well as bowel obstruction or infertility in some cases. Diagnosis of adhesions is typically made through imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound.
Treatment of adhesions depends on the severity of the symptoms and the location of the adhesions. In some cases, surgical removal of the adhesions may be necessary to relieve symptoms and improve function. However, surgery can also lead to the formation of new adhesions, so it is often considered a last resort. Other treatments for adhesions may include physical therapy, medication, or minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopy.
