Dictionary

Surgical

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

dantroleneA muscle relaxant that acts inside muscle cells, given by IV for malignant hyperthermia or by mouth for spasticity.

debridementThe removal of dead, damaged or infected tissue from a wound so it can heal.

dehiscenceThe splitting open of the edges of a wound that had been closed, such as a surgical incision.

dilatorAn instrument used to stretch or widen an opening, canal or passage in the body.

dissectTo cut apart or separate tissues carefully during surgery.

dissectionA tear in the inner layer of an artery wall that lets blood split the layers apart; also, the cutting apart of tissue in surgery.

drainA tube or device placed in a wound or body cavity to remove fluid, blood or air.

drapeA sheet placed over a client, either sterile to keep an area clean around a procedure site or plain to give privacy.