Dictionary

Surgical

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

laparoscopicDone through a few small cuts in the abdomen with a thin camera and long instruments, instead of one large opening.

laparoscopySurgery or an exam done through small cuts in the belly, using a thin, lighted tube with a camera.

laparotomySurgery that opens the abdomen through a large cut to reach the organs inside.

laryngospasmA sudden, involuntary closing of the vocal cords that partly or fully blocks air from entering the lungs.

latexNatural rubber made from the sap of the rubber tree, used in some gloves, catheters and other medical supplies.

latex allergyAn allergic reaction to proteins in natural rubber latex, found in some gloves, catheters and other products.

lithotomyA position lying on the back with the hips and knees bent and the legs raised and spread apart, often in stirrups.

local anesthesiaNumbing medicine applied to or injected into one small area, so a procedure there is not felt while the person stays awake.

local anestheticA drug that blocks feeling in one part of the body without making the person unconscious.