The Pitt Medical Terminology Practice Test

Adhesions describe fibrous bands that form between abdominal tissues and organs during healing after peritoneal injury. When the lining of the abdomen is irritated or damaged—such as after surgery—the inflammatory process can lead to scar tissue that creates these bands. Over time, adhesions can tether loops of intestine or connect organs to the abdominal wall, which can cause pain or—even more seriously—bowel obstruction. Other terms refer to different problems. Fistulas are abnormal passages that develop between organs or between an organ and the skin. Hernias are bulges that occur when an organ pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall. Ulcers are sores on mucosal surfaces, such as the stomach or intestines. The description given—bands of scar tissue forming between abdominal tissues and organs, most often after abdominal surgery—best fits adhesions.