Dictionary

Surgical

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

I&DIncision and drainage: cutting open an abscess or collection so pus or fluid can drain out.

ileostomyA surgical opening that brings the end of the ileum through the belly wall, so stool leaves the body there.

ileusA slowing or stopping of the normal movement of the intestines, with nothing physically blocking them.

iliacHaving to do with the ilium, the large, wing-shaped upper part of the hip bone.

implantA device or material placed inside the body, such as an artificial joint, pacemaker or birth control rod.

incentive spirometerA hand-held device that helps a person take slow, deep breaths and shows how much air they breathe in.

incisionA clean cut made through the skin and tissue during surgery.

inductionThe starting of a process on purpose, such as bringing on labor or putting a client under anesthesia.

informed consentA person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.

insufflationBlowing a gas into a body cavity, such as carbon dioxide into the abdomen during laparoscopic surgery.

intraoperativeHappening during surgery, from when the client is brought into the operating room until they are moved to recovery.