Intestinal Adhesions: Symptoms and Manifestations

Adhesions in the intestine and abdominal cavity are scar tissue that forms after surgery and can partially or completely obstruct the intestinal lumen. The symptoms of adhesions are described through the signs of intestinal obstruction. Below is how to distinguish alarming manifestations and which examinations are used.

What intestinal and abdominal adhesions are

Adhesions are scar tissue that forms after surgery. In obstruction, the contents of the intestine cannot pass through it. A distinction is made between mechanical obstruction, when something partially or completely blocks the intestine, and ileus, a condition in which the intestine does not function properly but there is no structural barrier.

Why adhesions form, including after appendicitis

Adhesions occur after surgery, including abdominal surgery. Appendicitis is among the causes of paralytic obstruction (ileus). Mechanical causes of obstruction include adhesions, or scar tissue after surgery. Other mechanical causes include hernias, tumors, volvulus, intussusception, foreign bodies, fecal stones, and inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease.

Symptoms of intestinal adhesions

The manifestations of adhesions are described through the signs of intestinal obstruction. These include:

• severe pain or cramping abdominal pain;
• bloating and abdominal distension;
• nausea and vomiting;
• inability to pass gas or stool, constipation;
• loud bowel sounds, a feeling of fullness and gas.

Diarrhea and bad breath are also possible. Complete intestinal obstruction is an emergency condition that often requires surgery.

Why abdominal adhesions hurt

Abdominal pain with adhesions is described as severe pain or cramping pain; it is one of the signs of intestinal obstruction. If the blood supply to the intestine is impaired, infection and tissue necrosis are possible. The risk of necrosis is related to the cause of the blockage and how long it has existed. Persistent unexplained abdominal pain is a reason to see a doctor.

How adhesions are detected

On examination, the doctor may detect bloating, tenderness, or an abdominal hernia. Examinations that show obstruction include computed tomography of the abdomen, abdominal radiography, a barium enema, and X-ray examination of the upper gastrointestinal tract and small intestine. The exact list of examinations is determined by the doctor.

Complications and when to see a doctor urgently

Complications of obstruction include electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, intestinal perforation, infection, tissue necrosis (gangrene), and jaundice. You should see a doctor if stool or gas is not passing, abdominal bloating does not resolve, vomiting continues, or unexplained abdominal pain persists.

The presence of adhesions alone is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if signs of complete obstruction appear: severe pain or cramping in the abdomen, gas and stool not passing, repeated vomiting, increasing abdominal bloating.

This material is for reference: it describes signs and examinations but does not replace consultation with a doctor, who assesses the condition individually.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer