Laparoscopy for Adhesions

Abstract

Intestinal and abdominal adhesions may be responsible for a variety of clinical conditions, including chronic recurrent small-bowel obstruction, acute small-bowel obstruction, closed-loop bowel obstruction and, debatably, abdominal or pelvic pain. Experience in laparoscopic surgery has increased at a rapid pace, thus adhesions are no longer considered a contraindication to treatment of these conditions. In recent years, numerous publications have reported the feasibility, safety, and favorable outcome of laparoscopic intervention in various adhesion-related conditions. As adhesions are the most common cause of recurrent or acute bowel obstruction, this review will focus on the laparoscopic management of these conditions and outline the technical considerations, indications, contraindications, and results.