What does adhesion refer to in a medical context?

In a medical context, adhesion refers to an abnormal union of membranes or tissues that normally are separate. This can occur after surgery, due to inflammation, or as a result of injury, where fibrous scar tissue forms and connects different anatomical structures. Adhesions can lead to complications such as blockages in the intestines or pelvic pain, depending on where they occur in the body. Understanding the nature of adhesions is important for diagnosing and treating conditions related to surgical recovery or inflammatory diseases, as they can significantly impact a patient's health and quality of life.