Dictionary

Surgical

Terms from the operating room and the care of surgical clients.

abdominal hysterectomySurgery to remove the uterus through a cut in the lower abdomen.

ablationA procedure that destroys a small area of tissue, often with heat or cold, to stop it from causing a problem.

adhesionA band of scar tissue that joins two surfaces inside the body that are normally separate.

aerationAiring out: in sterile processing, the step that removes leftover ethylene oxide gas from items after sterilization.

amputationThe removal of all or part of a limb or other body part, by surgery or by injury.

analgesiaRelief from pain without loss of consciousness, or the treatment used to bring that relief.

anastomosisA connection between two tube-shaped structures, such as two ends of bowel or two blood vessels, made by surgery or found naturally.

anesthesiaLoss of feeling or sensation, often brought on by drugs so that surgery or a procedure can be done without pain.

anesthesia providerThe licensed professional who gives anesthesia and watches over the client's breathing and vital functions during a procedure.

anestheticA drug that causes loss of feeling, with or without loss of consciousness.

appendectomySurgery to remove the appendix.

arthroplastySurgery to repair or replace a joint, most often the hip or knee.