With the use of a rabbit surgical model, the ability of 1%, 2%, and 3% solutions of sodium carboxymethylcellulose to reduce postoperative uterine adhesions was determined. At all concentrations sodium carboxymethylcellulose was more effective than either 32% dextran 70 or heparinized lactated Ringer's solution. Neither the dextran nor Ringer's solution had a significant (p less than or equal to 0.05) effect. The beneficial effects of sodium carboxymethylcellulose were closely dose-dependent (correlation coefficient 0.97). Sodium carboxymethylcellulose is highly effective in reducing postoperative adhesions in laboratory animals, and additional studies are warranted to further define its efficacy and safety.