Category: Procedures and Operations
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Cystolitholapaxy: What is it, Risks
What is cystolitholapaxy? Cystolitholapaxy is a procedure used to break up and remove bladder stones. Bladder stones are hard deposits of minerals that can form in the bladder when urine becomes concentrated. They can cause symptoms such as pain, difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and blood in the urine. During a cystolitholapaxy, a urologist inserts a…
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C-Section: When to have one; Risks
When should a woman have a C-section? A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. It is typically performed when vaginal delivery is not considered safe or feasible. Some common reasons for a C-section include: It’s important for women to…
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CPR: How To, Effectiveness
What is CPR? CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped, such as during cardiac arrest. CPR is performed to manually pump blood and deliver oxygen to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help arrives. CPR involves chest compressions to…
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Cord Blood Banking
What is cord blood banking? Cord blood banking is the process of collecting and storing the blood found in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. This blood is rich in stem cells, which have the potential to develop into various types of cells in the body. Cord blood is typically collected…
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Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
What is a comprehensive metabolic panel and what conditions does can it detect? A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures the levels of various substances in your blood, including electrolytes, glucose, proteins, and liver and kidney function markers. It provides information about your body’s metabolism and organ function. A CMP can…
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Cochlear Implants: Benefits and disadvantages
What is a cochlear implant and how does it work? A cochlear implant is a small electronic device that is surgically implanted into the inner ear to help provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit from conventional hearing aids. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound,…
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Clitoral Hood Reduction: Risks and Benefits
What is a clitoral hood reduction? Clitoral hood reduction, also known as clitoral hoodectomy or clitoral hoodplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to reduce the size or length of the clitoral hood. The clitoral hood is the fold of skin that covers and protects the clitoris, a sensitive organ located at the top of the…
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Clear Braces: Appearance and Effectiveness
What are clear braces? Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are orthodontic devices used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They work similarly to traditional metal braces but are made of clear or tooth-colored materials, making them less noticeable. Here are some key features of clear braces: Overall, clear braces offer a more…
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Circumcision: Benefits and Drawbacks, Revision
What is circumcision and is it painful? Circumcision is a surgical procedure that involves removing the foreskin, the fold of skin that covers the head of the penis. It is typically done for cultural, religious, or medical reasons. The pain associated with circumcision can vary depending on the age of the person undergoing the procedure.…
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Chiropractic Adjustment
What is a chiropractic adjustment and what conditions do they treat? A chiropractic adjustment, also known as spinal manipulation, is a technique used by chiropractors to apply controlled force to specific joints in the spine or other areas of the body to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore proper function. The goal of a…
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Bone-Anchored Hearing Aid: Risks and Benefits
What is a bone-anchored hearing aid? A bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) is a type of hearing aid that is surgically implanted to help improve hearing in people with certain types of hearing loss. Unlike traditional hearing aids that amplify sound and direct it into the ear canal, a BAHA works by conducting sound vibrations through…
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Body Contouring: What it is, Benefits, Risks, Recovery
What is body contouring? Body contouring refers to a group of cosmetic procedures that alter the shape of the body by removing excess skin and fat or by tightening and reshaping underlying tissues. These procedures are typically done after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or to address natural changes in body shape due to aging. Body…
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Arthroplasty: What is it and what does it achieve?
What is arthroplasty? Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to restore function to a joint by either partially or completely replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant. The goal of arthroplasty is to relieve pain, improve joint function, and restore mobility. It is commonly performed on joints affected by arthritis or other conditions that cause…
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Appendectomy: Why remove the appendix?
Where is the appendix and what is its function? The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch located near the junction of the small and large intestines, in the lower right area of the abdomen. Its exact function in the human body is not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in the…
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Angioplasty: Who Needs It, and Risks
What is an angioplasty? Angioplasty is a medical procedure used to widen narrowed or blocked blood vessels, typically arteries. It is most commonly performed on arteries that have become narrowed due to atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Angioplasty can improve blood flow to the affected area and…
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Amniocentesis: Benefits and Risks
What are the benefits of amniocentesis? Amniocentesis is a prenatal test that involves taking a small sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus to analyze fetal cells for various genetic abnormalities and other conditions. While amniocentesis can provide valuable information about the health of the fetus, it also carries some risks. Benefits of amniocentesis…
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Adenoidectomy (Adenoid Removal)
What is an adenoidectomy (adenoid removal)? An adenoidectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the adenoids, which are small glands located at the back of the nose, above the roof of the mouth (soft palate). The adenoids are part of the immune system and play a role in helping the body fight infections, particularly in…
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Acupuncture: What it is effective for
What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and promote health. The practice is based on the concept of qi (pronounced “chee”), which is believed to be a vital energy that flows through the body along…
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ACTH Stimulation Test
What is an ACTH stimulation test? An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test is a medical procedure used to assess the functioning of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands produce several important hormones, including cortisol. Cortisol plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress. During an ACTH stimulation test, a healthcare provider will…
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Ablation Therapy
What are the types of ablation therapy? Ablation therapy encompasses various techniques used to destroy abnormal tissues in the body. Here are the main types of ablation therapy: 1. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) 2. Cryoablation 3. Laser Ablation 4. Microwave Ablation 5. Ultrasound Ablation (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, HIFU) 6. Chemical Ablation 7. Electrical Ablation 8. Thermal…