Adhesion (ad he"zh*n) is the growing together of body tissues that are
normally separate. Adhesions ( protective bands ) form in some disorders,
following injuries, or following surgery. The sticky healing fluid produced
by the damaged internal tissue can solidify to form a band. This band then
joins the injured tissue to any body structure or organ with which it comes
in contact. Often this is a cavity wall, particularly in the abdomen.
Usually this type of adhesion produces no problems. But if the structure so
attached is normally free-moving, serious problems may result. The problem
may require surgery. Abdominal adhesions of the bowel, for example, can
produce pain and obstruction, which may demand surgical correction.