Treatment Methods for Postoperative Intestinal Adhesions

Some patients develop intestinal adhesions following surgery, which can significantly impact both their physical and psychological well-being. Family members often become anxious as well. What are the treatment options for postoperative intestinal adhesions?

Treatment Options for Postoperative Intestinal Adhesions

There are two main approaches: non-surgical therapy and surgical therapy. Non-surgical therapy is indicated for simple, incomplete adhesive intestinal obstruction. Particularly extensive adhesions are generally managed conservatively (i.e., non-surgically). For simple intestinal obstruction, observation for one to two days may be appropriate. In contrast, strangulated intestinal obstruction requires prompt surgical intervention—observation should not exceed six hours. Surgical treatment is recommended when: (1) adhesive intestinal obstruction fails to improve or worsens despite conservative management; (2) strangulated intestinal obstruction is suspected—especially closed-loop obstruction; or (3) recurrent adhesive intestinal obstruction severely compromises the patient’s quality of life. If bowel necrosis is present, treatment may involve simple adhesiolysis or resection with primary anastomosis. When dense adhesions prevent safe separation of the affected bowel loops, side-to-side anastomosis between proximal and distal segments may be performed.

Patients may also benefit from dietary modification, gastrointestinal decompression, correction of fluid-electrolyte imbalances and acid-base disturbances, and prevention/treatment of infection and sepsis. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and acupuncture may be employed as adjunctive therapies.

Early mobilization is encouraged to promote intestinal motility and help prevent recurrence of adhesions. We hope this information proves helpful to you.