Surgical Adhesions Were Recognized More Than 1500 Years Ago

Why Do Adhesions Form?

Disequilibrium Between Fibrin Deposition and Degradation

Not All Adhesions Are Created Equal

Where Do Adhesions Form?

The Sequelae of Adhesions

The Sequelae of Adhesions (cont)

Endometriosis

Adhesions Have a Profound Economic Effect on the Healthcare System

Cost of Adhesions Encountered During Operative Procedures

A Small Reduction in Adhesions Can Have a Large Economic Effect

What Can We Do to Minimize the Risk for Adhesions?

Meticulous Surgical Technique

Historical Perspective

Historical Perspective

Types of Agents Approved for the Prevention and Disruption of Adhesion Formation in the US

Antiadhesion Barrier Gel Products Approved in the United States

Antiadhesion Barrier Gel Products Approved in the United States (cont)

What Does the Evidence Show?

Emerging Novel Devices and Therapies

Emerging Novel Devices and Therapies

It's in Your Hands

Laparoscopy vs Open Surgery

Summary

Abbreviations

References

References (cont)

References (cont)

References (cont)

References (cont)

References (cont)

References (cont)

References (cont)