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Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics

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Open Access 01-04-2012 | General Gynecology

A review of the problematic adhesion prophylaxis in gynaecological surgery

Authors: Anja Hirschelmann, Garri Tchartchian, Markus Wallwiener, Andreas Hackethal, Rudy Leon De Wilde

Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics | Issue 4/2012

Abstract

Background

Adhesions lead to considerable patient morbidity and are a mounting burden on surgeons and the health care system alike. Although adhesion formation is the most frequent complication in abdominal and pelvic surgery, many surgeons are still not aware of the extent of the problem. To provide the best care for their patients, surgeons should consistently inform themselves of anti-adhesion strategies and include these methods in their daily routine.

Methods

Searches were conducted in PubMed and The Cochrane Library to identify relevant literature.

Findings

Various complications are associated with adhesion formation, including small bowel obstruction, infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Increasingly, an understanding of adhesion formation as a complex process influenced by many different factors has led to various conceivable anti-adhesion strategies. At present, a number of different anti-adhesion agents are available. Although some agents have proved effective in reducing adhesion formation in randomised controlled trials, none of them can completely prevent adhesion formation.

Conclusion

To fulfil our duty to provide best possible care for our patients, it is now time to regard adhesions as the most common complication in surgery. Further research is needed to fully understand adhesion formation and to develop new strategies for adhesion prevention. Large clinical efficacy trials of anti-adhesion agents will make it easier for surgeons to decide which agent to use in daily routine.

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Title: A review of the problematic adhesion prophylaxis in gynaecological surgery
Authors: Anja Hirschelmann
Garri Tchartchian
Markus Wallwiener
Andreas Hackethal
Rudy Leon De Wilde
Publication date: 01-04-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics / Issue 4/2012
Print ISSN: 0932-0067
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0711
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-011-2097-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

A review of the problematic adhesion prophylaxis in gynaecological surgery

Abstract

Background

Methods

Findings

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Findings

Conclusion

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