Our Program
Self-Assessment Tool
Use the CAPPS self-assessment tool to determine if you are at risk for adhesions.
FAQs
How would I know if I have adhesions?
Adhesions are not always symptomatic, but can be the cause of chronic abdominal pain and pelvic pain, bowel obstruction, painful intercourse and even infertility in women. If the source of your pain is undiagnosed, we recommend that you consult with one of our specialists in complex abdominal pain and pelvic pain disorders.
What are adhesions?
Adhesions have been called “the hidden illness†because they are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. You may have never heard of “adhesions,†but this painful, distressing condition is quite common and can form on any area in the pelvic or abdominal region following surgery, injury, or trauma.
What causes adhesions?
Adhesions can develop as the body attempts to heal or repair itself. This is a normal response that can occur after surgery, infection, trauma, or radiation. But since some cells within the body cannot differentiate between one organ and another the organs within the body cavity can become interconnected. For example, loops of intestines join other intestines and the walls of the abdomen creating a painful entanglement.
What can be done to control my pain while I am waiting to have surgery done?
Our pain specialists are available to provide the appropriate care in the management of your pain, before and after surgery. They will also provide care when surgery is not indicated.
Should I be on a special diet?
In many cases there is an underlining nutrition related issue; dietary counseling by a dietician, is an important component of the health care provided by the Center.
Are there any medications or products available to treat adhesions?
There is no FDA approved products proven to successfully treat adhesions.
What do you do differently in your treatment of adhesions?
We use a Harmonic Scalpel (ultracision energy) and heated humidified carbon dioxide to take down the adhesions. This technique helps in decreasing peritoneal inflammation, therefore reducing the chance of reoccurrence.
What can be done to prevent adhesions from reoccurring?
There is no approved effective treatment for preventing the reoccurrence of adhesions.
What test do you use to diagnose adhesions?
Direct visualization of the inner abdomen and pelvis is the only definitive way to determine if one has adhesions. Adhesion is not usually detected on x-rays, CT scan or MRI.
