Name of the Procedure:

Enterolysis (Freeing of Intestinal Adhesion)

• Common Name: Adhesion Removal Surgery
• Technical Term: Enterolysis

Summary

Enterolysis is a surgical procedure aimed at removing adhesions (bands of scar tissue) within the intestines that can cause obstructions or pain. The procedure involves carefully separating these adhesions to restore normal bowel function.

Purpose

Enterolysis is performed to address issues caused by intestinal adhesions, which may include chronic abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, and digestive difficulties. The primary goal is to relieve symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life by restoring normal bowel movement.

Indications

• Recurrent bowel obstructions
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Difficulty with digestion and bowel movements
• History of abdominal surgeries which have led to adhesions

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Instructions to stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, will be provided.
• Diagnostic tests such as abdominal X-rays or CT scans may be required to assess the extent of adhesions.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the abdomen to allow access to the intestines. In some cases, a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is used.
3. Adhesion Identification: The surgeon identifies and carefully dissects or cuts through the adhesions without damaging the intestines.
4. Separation: The adhesions are carefully separated to free the intestines.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples and covered with a sterile dressing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent and number of adhesions.

Setting

Enterolysis can be performed in a hospital or surgical center, often on an inpatient basis.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Damage to the intestines or surrounding organs
• Recurrence of adhesions
• Anesthesia-related risks

Benefits

• Relief from chronic abdominal pain
• Improved bowel function and digestion
• Reduced risk of bowel obstructions
• Enhanced quality of life

Recovery

• Patients may stay in the hospital for a few days post-surgery for monitoring.
• Pain management will include medications as prescribed by the healthcare team.
• Instructions on wound care and activity restrictions will be provided.
• Full recovery may take several weeks, with a gradual return to normal activities.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Alternatives

• Conservative management with dietary adjustments and pain medications
• Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery in suitable cases
• Potential risks and benefits of alternatives should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and won’t feel or remember anything. Post-procedure, discomfort and pain at the incision site are expected but manageable with medications. Moving around shortly after surgery is encouraged to aid recovery, although activity will be limited in the initial weeks. Lingering soreness and fatigue are common as the body heals.