Peritoneal adhesions in pediatric abdominal surgery: incidence, severity, and predictors of adverse outcomes

Adherencias peritoneales en la cirugía abdominal pediátrica: incidencia, gravedad y predictores de resultados adversos

Abstract

Background: Peritoneal adhesions are a frequent postoperative complication following abdominal surgery and may lead to significant morbidity. However, data on their incidence, severity, and clinical outcomes in pediatric populations remain limited. Objectives: This study aims to determine the incidence, severity, and clinical outcomes of peritoneal adhesions in pediatric abdominal surgery and to identify factors associated with adverse outcomes. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted from January 2023 to December 2025. All pediatric patients (<18 years) undergoing abdominal surgery were screened. Among 294 procedures, 43 patients with intraoperatively confirmed adhesions were included. Adhesion severity was categorized as severe (Grade 4) and non-severe (Grade ≤3). Outcomes included mortality, reoperation, and length of hospital stay (LOS). Associations were analyzed using Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test and Mann–Whitney U test, with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).