Scar tissue is also known as adhesions. Whenever the body is injured, scar tissue develops. We are aware of scar tissue that develops on the skin and refers to it as a scab. The truth is scar tissue develops inside of the body as well. One sign of scar tissue formation on the inside of the body is a bruise. Other forms of scar tissue on the inside of the body can’t be seen with the naked eye or on various imaging tests. For example, internal scar tissue can’t be seen on X-Rays, CT Scans or MRI Scans. For this reason, it is very difficult to be certain if internal scar tissue is present or if it is causing a problem unless a Laparoscopy Surgery is done. According to the Center for Pancreatic and Biliary Disease at the University of Southern California, “Laparoscopic surgery also referred to as minimally invasive surgery describes the performance of surgical procedures with the assistance of a video camera and several thin instruments. During the surgical procedure, small incisions of up to half an inch are made and plastic tubes called ports are placed through these incisions. The camera and the instruments are then introduced through the ports which allow access to the inside of the patient.” By using this procedure doctors are able to see if scar tissue is interfering with normal functioning of organs, tissues, or blood vessels.
Scar tissue can create problems internally, especially in the case of the organs in the abdomen. Organs are meant to move freely and slide between each other in the abdomen; however, scar tissue can adhere to organs prohibiting the slight movement of the organs. When the body is twisted, stretched or bent, the internal organs adjust with slight movement. So, when scar tissue wraps around an organ, it interrupts the body’s ability to function properly and can lead to pain. Also, when scar tissue wraps around a portion of the intestine, a blockage can occur which can lead to the loss of blood flow to that area resulting in tissue death if the issue is not addressed in time. Furthermore, adhesions can prohibit the passage of feces in an area of the colon leading to a total blockage, which could be fatal if not address in time. Lastly, whenever you are cut blood vessels and nerves are damaged which can be problematic as well.
All things considered, please do your research prior to having surgery. Do get as much information you can from your doctor, and I would suggest engaging in extensive research prior to agreeing to have major surgery. Try to find message boards to get feedback from persons who have experiences similar to yours or to find information pertaining to the surgery you are considering.