Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 30, 2026
Creation of Abdominal Adhesions in Mice
Published on: August 27, 2016
Postoperative adhesion development following cesarean and open intra-abdominal gynecological operations: a review
Awoniyi O Awonuga1, Nicole M Fletcher, Ghassan M Saed
1Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
Insights
Peritoneal adhesions, or internal scar tissue, can form after surgery. While less common after cesarean delivery (CD) than other surgeries, they still pose risks and require further study for prevention and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Surgical Pathology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Peritoneal adhesions are a common complication following intra-abdominal and pelvic surgeries.
- Cesarean delivery (CD) is associated with adhesion development, though potentially less frequently than other gynecological operations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of adhesion formation.
- To examine the influence of pregnancy-related physiological changes on adhesion markers.
- To discuss the clinical significance of adhesions post-cesarean delivery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pathophysiology, pregnancy effects, and clinical implications of adhesions.
- Analysis of existing evidence on adhesion development after cesarean delivery.
- Synthesis of information on the consequences of adhesions.
Main Results:
- Adhesion development is a frequent outcome of abdominal/pelvic surgery.
- Pregnancy-associated physiological changes may impact adhesion markers.
- Adhesions after CD, while less frequent on average, can have serious lifelong consequences.
Conclusions:
- Understanding adhesion pathophysiology is crucial for managing intra-abdominal adhesions.
- An evidence-based approach to adhesion prevention and treatment after CD is warranted.
- Further research is needed to inform clinical practice regarding adhesions post-cesarean delivery.
Abstract:
In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of adhesion development, the impact of physiological changes associated with pregnancy on markers of adhesion development, and the clinical implications of adhesion development following cesarean delivery (CD). Although peritoneal adhesions develop after the overwhelming majority of intra-abdominal and pelvic surgery, there is evidence in the literature that suggests that patients having CD may develop adhesions less frequently. However, adhesions continue to be a concern after CD, and are likely significant, albeit on average less than after gynecological operations, but with potential to cause significant delay in the delivery of the baby with serious, lifelong consequences. Appreciation of the pathophysiology of adhesion development described herein should allow a more informed approach to the rapidly evolving field of intra-abdominal adhesions and should serve as a reference for an evidence-based approach to consideration for the prevention and treatment of adhesions.
