This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

Primary objective:
To determine the efficacy of intra‐peritoneal prophylactic agents in reducing the incidence, distribution and severity of adhesions in non‐gynaecological abdominal surgery.

Secondary objectives:
To determine the effect of intra‐peritoneal prophylactic agents on the incidence and outcome of adhesion related intestinal obstruction.
To determine the safety and adverse effect profile of intra‐peritoneal prophylactic agents in non‐gynaecological intra‐abdominal surgery.
To detect any changes in health related quality of life from the use of intra‐peritoneal prophylactic agents in this subset of patients.