Adhesion Prevention

By RRM Academy Reviewed by Dr. Naomi Whittaker, MD, Board-Certified OBGYN, MIGS, NFPMC, FCI Updated May 14, 2026

Adhesion prevention refers to the set of surgical strategies employed before, during, and after pelvic surgery to minimize the formation of post-operative adhesions. Adhesions form when tissue surfaces that were separated by surgery heal in contact with each other. They can distort anatomy, impair tubal function, and contribute to chronic pelvic pain and infertility.

A multi-component approach is the standard in restorative pelvic surgery. Surgical technique is the primary determinant: meticulous hemostasis, gentle tissue handling, magnification to reduce collateral trauma, and thorough peritoneal irrigation all reduce the inflammatory stimulus for adhesion formation. Excision is preferred over fulguration precisely because it removes lesions with defined margins rather than burning and leaving devitalized tissue behind.¹

Anti-adhesion barriers provide a second layer of protection by physically separating tissue surfaces during the critical early healing window. Options include oxidized regenerated cellulose, sodium hyaluronate and carboxymethylcellulose membranes, and hyaluronic acid gels applied at closure. The choice of barrier depends on the surgical site and the extent of reconstruction required.¹

Published NaProTechnology surgical series document progressive reduction in adhesion scores over decades of systematic barrier use, reflecting the cumulative effect of technique refinement alongside barrier application.¹ The goal across all approaches is a pelvis that heals cleanly, with anatomy preserved and tubal function restored.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult an RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.