Our upper and lower abdomen are home to various organs of the digestive, reproductive and lymphatic systems. It is incredible how so many structures can function and find themselves located in such a limited space. About seven meters of intestine, ten other organs, a bundle of vessels, nerves are all tightly connected by different layers of fascia tissue that provide support and cover for all these structures. It is therefore understandable that an intrusion in this region of the body can lead to multiple system complications. In this blog, we would like to discuss the anatomy of this area, explain the effects of internal and external scars in the upper and lower abdomen and introduce different therapy options.
External scars
Depending on the type of operation into the abdominal cavity, up to nine or more layers must be cut through to reach the target organ. Such wounds require not only adequate initial care, but also professional postoperative therapy to support an optimal healing process. The aim is not only to regenerate the exterior scars, but also to prevent the adhesion of the different inner layers and the potential associated complications into the other systems. The treatment of a scar results in improved blood circulation and consequently greater flexibility that extends to the depth of the tissue. Pain and sensitivity ailments in and around the scar tissue are reduced as the treatment helps promote the growth of fine sensory nerves in the skin.
Endoscopic scars appear inconspicuous at first sight. However, they form an inner tunnel system of scar tissue and therefore require a lot of attention during therapy and home care so that they do not intertwine with surrounding structures or cause painful movement restrictions.
What to do with internal scars
The removal of an organ does not result in a hollow space. The operated region closes with scar tissue and can therefore stick or fuse with various surrounding structures if no therapy is provided. With treatment techniques working through the abdominal wall, adhesions can be loosened and subsequent complications can be treated gently.
Internal scars occur not only through surgical intrusion. Recurring inflammations in the digestive or urogenital tract can lead to micro-scarring and require external manual treatment. In this case, however, scarring is not the only problem. In diseases such as chronic bladder infection, the bacteria are deposited in the peritoneal area between the organs and flare up when the immune system is weak. Consequently, this can lead to repeated urinary tract infections. Such a situation can be prevented through regular therapy outside the acute phase.
Finding the right therapy for yourself
Depending on the operation or complication, different options for post-surgical therapies can be recommended. Ideally, you should request a personalized program that is interdisciplinary and comprehensive.
In the case of post-surgical oedema, it is recommended to incorporate several sessions of manual lymphatic drainage and then slowly integrate the treatment of the scar. After surgery of the abdominal cavity, correct breathing technique plays an important role in the internal healing process and can be learnt with breathing therapy exercises.