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Abdominal adhesions (scar tissue in the belly)

Also called: Abdominal adhesions, belly scar tissue, peritoneal adhesions

Bands of scar tissue inside the belly that make organs stick together, usually after surgery. Most cause no problems, but they can cause pain or block the intestines.

Common afterBelly or pelvic surgery
Main dangerBowel blockage
TreatmentOften none; surgery for blockage

Overview

Most people who've had belly surgery have some adhesions.

Adhesions can twist or pull the bowel and cause a blockage, which is an emergency.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Belly pain after past surgery

Less common

  • Cramping
  • Bloating
  • Constipation

Look up a symptom: Bloating or gas · Stomach pain

When to get medical care

Call 911Belly swelling with vomiting and no gas or stool (possible blockage): call 911.
Get care todayCramping that keeps getting worse.
See a doctor soonOngoing belly pain after surgery.

Causes

Surgery, infection, or inflammation in the belly.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Past belly or pelvic surgery
  • Endometriosis
  • Past belly infection

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Adhesions don't show on most scans; doctors look for their effects.

Questions you may be asked

  • Past surgeries
  • Bowel habits

The exam

Belly exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • CT scan: Shows a blockage.

Treatment

Most adhesions need no treatment.

Self-care

  • Know the signs of a blockage
  • Eat smaller meals if you have cramping
  • Stay active and avoid constipation

Surgery to cut adhesions is used for blockage or severe pain, though new adhesions can form.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Choose minimally invasive surgery when possible

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most people with adhesions never have problems.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Could my pain be from adhesions?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Abdominal adhesions (scar tissue in the belly)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.