Pautler et al classified adhesions seen at laparoscopy based on their quality and extent. The authors are from the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda.
Parameters:
(1) quality (modified scale of the Operative Laparoscopy Group)
(2) extent
Quality of the Adhesions
Grade
none
0
thin and filmy
1
more dense and opaque
2
thick and cohesive involving bowel and other organs
3
Extent of the Adhesions
Amount
1 - 9% of the operative field
minor
10 - 25% of the operative field
moderate
> 25% of the operative field
severe
Even a single, small adhesion in the wrong place can cause obstruction. However, this is less of a problem than an abdominal cavity matted together.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.