Adhesion Prevention in Gynecologic Surgery: Guidance and Clinical Experience

Postoperative adhesions represent a major medical challenge and are associated with serious health and economic consequences. 4DryField^® PH (PlantTec Medical GmbH, Lueneburg, Germany) is a starch-based medical device designed both to prevent adhesions and for hemostasis. This paper explores methods to successfully apply it in gynecological surgery, leveraging the authors' extensive clinical experience. We provide detailed insights into best practices that benefit most patients with conditions such as endometriosis, along with practical tips and guidance on optimizing application and dosage. Our real-world clinical experience across various indications, supported by published data, demonstrates significant patient benefits: reduced adhesion formation, better recovery, less pain, and improved fertility. Patient acceptance and satisfaction are notably high. The device can be applied to surgical wounds as a powder for hemostasis and transformed into a gel in situ or as a premixed gel when adhesion prevention is prioritized. Specific advantages for each method are demonstrated by case studies. When used correctly, 4DryField PH is safe and effective, especially for larger wound areas with a high risk of reoperation and adhesion formation and when pregnancy is desired. It offers great versatility due to its use as either in situ gel or premixed gel with different viscosities. Despite some remaining gaps in clinical evidence and ongoing studies, our personal clinical experience suggests significant benefits with minimal risks. Therefore, we have no concerns regarding the broad use of 4DryField PH in gynecology and other surgical disciplines. Future research should focus on patient-reported outcomes and health economic benefits to support reimbursement efforts.