Complications and Feasibility of Laparoscopic Adhesiolysis in Patients with Chronic Abdominal Pain. A Retrospective Study

Background: A retrospective study was done to determine whether laparoscopic adhesiolysis benefits patients with chronic abdominal pain. Factors that influence complications and feasibility of laparoscopic adhesiolysis were evaluated.

Methods: 174 consecutive operations in 157 patients were retrospectively analyzed for factors which might influence the complication rate and the feasibility of laparoscopic adhesiolysis.

Results: In 128 out of 174 procedures a complete adhesiolysis was performed. We had to accept an incomplete adhesiolysis in 39 other patients and in 7 patients a primary conversion was needed. We noticed 16 major complications. Two patients died. Relief of pain was recorded in 80% of patients after short follow-up. The number of previous abdominal operations and patient age significantly affected the outcome of surgery.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic adhesiolysis in patients with chronic abdominal pain seems to be a feasible and effective operation with considerable risk.