What is Adhesiolysis: Surgery Basics for Patients
Here are Houston Fertility Center, we want to make sure our patients receive the treatment that is best for them and their needs. When less invasive solutions for infertility fail or are simply not viable, there are a number of safe and effective surgical options for infertility to consider.
Adhesiolysis is one such procedure that can help with infertility caused by scar tissue and adhesion between organs. Its name is uncommon, and few patients know what it involves. Let's take a moment to cover the basics.
About Scar Tissue and Adhesions
In basic terms, adhesions refer to bands of scar tissue that form between organs. In the case of abdominal adhesions, these tend to form after a patient undergoes an abdominal surgery, after a patient experiences an infection of the abdomen or pelvis, or as a result of various medical conditions. In fact, it's estimated that 90% to 95% of people who undergo abdominal surgery will develop some sort of adhesion.
This scar tissue formation is part of the body's natural healing process in many instances.
How Adhesions Affect Fertility
In women, pelvic adhesions can have a negative impact on overall fertility and the ability to conceive. When adhesions affect the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or uterus, normal function of these organs can be negatively affected.
Endometriosis is one example of adhesions affecting female fertility. In this condition, cells meant to grow inside of the uterus wind up growing on the outside of the uterus. This tissue breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle, and trapped in the body since it has nowhere to exit. This leads to irritation of the organs and adhesions.
About Adhesiolysis
Adhesiolysis is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove scar tissue from the uterus and reproductive system. In many cases, the procedure is performed to address serious pain and discomfort linked to scar tissue and adhesions. The procedure removes the scar tissue, and in the process can restore fertility and alleviate pain.
Ideal Candidates for Adhesiolysis
Good candidates for adhesiolysis are women who experience infertility as a result of scar tissue and adhesions affecting the reproductive system. They should be in good health overall and able to tolerate a surgical procedure without experiencing serious danger to health and wellness.
The Adhesiolysis Procedure
Adhesiolysis is performed laparoscopically, meaning that the surgery is done using small incisions around the abdomen. Through these small incisions, a tiny internal camera can be placed and precise surgical instruments manupulated. Surgeons will work through these small incisions to complete the entire surgical procedure.
Thanks to the small incisions used during surgery, surgical scars are small and typically not noticeable. Patients will heal from the surgery much faster than they would an open surgery procedure. There are fewer issues with post-operative pain and discomfort as well.
Is Adhesiolysis Right for Me?
The best way to find out of adhesiolysis is an ideal surgical option for you and your needs is to discuss your situation with your general practitioner and our team of fertility specialists. We can go over various treatment options and weigh them against each other to determine the ideal option for you and your needs.
Contact Our Team of Fertility Specialists
For more information about your various fertility treatment options and how we can help you start the family of your dreams, be sure to contact our team of fertility specialists today. The team at Houston Fertility Center will work with you to help address the cause of your infertility.
