Major Characteristics of Experimental Models of Abdominal Adhesions

Abstract

The search for preventive and treatment methods for adhesions of the abdominal cavity and adhesive disease is one of the most important tasks of pharmaceutical and medical sciences; and the solution is based on experimental research studies involving animals. However, the varietyof adhesion modeling techniques, as well as specific features of experimental animals imply considerable difficulties to such research. The aim of the review was to describe and systematize experimental models of the adhesive process in the peritoneum applicable to small laboratory animals. The authors identify major models of adhesion induction, emphasizing the species differences of small laboratory animals that could affect the interpretation and extrapolation of the data obtained. The authors have proven that since adhesion is a complete product of the body inflammatory response to tissue damage, the treatment of adhesions should be solely based on surgical techniques, while therapeutic approaches might only prevent, slow down or reduce the intensity of adhesion processes.