Intra-abdominal adhesion formation is initiated by phospholipase A2.
The etiology of intra-abdominal adhesions is explained by hydrolysis of the peritoneal phospholipid layer caused by phospholipase A2 activity. This view could unify the pre-existing hypotheses that intra-abdominal adhesions are due to ischemia or increased plasminogen activator activity. New therapeutic approaches are suggested.