adhesion

the joining together of two surfaces that should normally be seperate as result of severe inflammation. Bands of fibrous tissue are formed that join the structures together. Adhesions may form within a damaged joint or following abdominal surgery, when they may form between loops of the intestine, etc. Adhesions at a joint restrict its movement (ankylosis) and can sometimes be resolved by manipulation. Adhesions within the abdomen or involving the lungs (resulting from PLEURISY ) may require surgery.