$1 Million Donation to ACS Foundation Will Help Fund Surgical Adhesions Research

A new initiative focused on the pervasive issue of surgical adhesions will be supported by a $1 million  donation from a Pennsylvania family to the ACS Foundation.

"We have personally witnessed the profound impact of surgical adhesions on individuals' lives and recognized an urgent need for advancement in this field. Our commitment is driven by a desire to safeguard other families from the pain and complications that arise from these postoperative conditions,” said benefactor Peter Carlino. “We are looking forward to ACS leading the way in creating greater understanding on this complex issue so that we find a way to bring relief to all who suffer from these painful adhesions.”

Adhesions are common in patients who undergo one or more abdominal or pelvic surgeries. It’s been a topic of extensive research, with more than 10,000 publications to date, but there remains a lack of consensus on standardized prevention and treatment strategies. This fragmentation in the scientific community has prompted the need for a comprehensive, systematic approach to assimilating existing research and identifying knowledge gaps.

The ACS Division of Research and Optimal Patient Care (DROPC) will lead the project, beginning with a meticulous literature review to establish a robust understanding of the current landscape of surgical adhesion science and highlight areas for further exploration.

“Our objective goes beyond mere understanding,” said DROPC Director Clifford Y. Ko, MD, MS, MSHS, FACS. “We aim to unify, strategize, and spearhead a concerted effort in addressing surgical adhesions, employing a research-backed approach to formulate effective, accessible interventions to bring relief to patients who suffer from these complications.”

Following the review, a summit will be assembled to leverage the collective expertise of renowned surgeons and researchers. This collaborative effort will not only to foster unity in addressing surgical adhesions but also develop practical, cost-effective strategies for patients across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Learn more about the ACS Foundation and donate today.