Intestinal adhesions are fibrous bands that tether loops of bowel to each other or to the abdominal wall, most commonly arising after peritoneal injury from surgery, infection, or radiation. Symptoms reflect the degree of luminal compromise, vascular impedance, and risk of strangulation. Colicky abdominal painIntermittent, cramping pain coincides with peristaltic waves against a fixed point; pain is typically periumbilical or suprapubic and may be relieved transiently by positional change. Distension and tympanyPartial or complete obstruction prevents effective passage of flatus and stool, leading to visible abdominal distension, hyper-resonant percussion, and high-pitched metallic bowel sounds. Nausea and bilious vomitingVomiting becomes faeculent... Learn more