Adhesions have been found in patients undergoing first time surgery. For example, infection, endometriosis, chemotherapy, Radiation and cancer may damage tissue and initiate Adhesions. The most common cause of Adhesion formation, is after surgery. Adhesions normally occur at the site of the surgical procedure. It has been shown that Adhesions that form after surgery are a result of the body's normal healing process.
Adhesions frequently develop during the first three to five days after surgery.
The number of hospital readmissions for Adhesion related complications rival the number of operations for heart bypass, hip replacements and appendix operations. Nerve endings may also become entrapped within a developing adhesion causing severe pain. Intesttinal obstruction is one of the most scvere consequences of Adhesions. Adhesions involving the bowel can cause a bowel obstruction or blockage. Adhesions can form elsewhere such as around the heart, spine and in the hand where they may lead to other problems.