Medical dictionary

What is intraoperative radiation therapy? Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) is a technique in which radiation is administered to a cancer tumour during a surgical procedure. Why is intraoperative radiation therapy performed? Intraoperative radiation therapy is mostly used in breast cancer, but it can also be applied to tumours of the pancreas, colon, rectum and liver, or in

What is intratissue percutaneous electrolysis? Intratissue percutaneous electrolysis, or EPI®, is a minimally invasive technique used in physiotherapy which sets in motion a series of mechanisms that remodel and regenerate tissue. It is a type of complementary therapy. How is it done? An acupuncture needle is inserted into the injured area or area which the therapist wishes to tre

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?An intrauterine device, more commonly known as an IUD, is a contraceptive device. It is a small copper device that is T-shaped and inserted into the uterus. No hormones are released by this device, as copper changes the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. This change in mucus also stops a fertilised egg implanting itself.

What is intrauterine insemination? Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one of the most used techniques in reproductive medicine. Sperm is deposited in the woman's vagina through artificial means and not sexual intercourse. The semen used can belong to the partner of the woman who wants to become pregnant or it can come from a sperm donor.   What does it consist of? The

What is an intravitreal injection? An intravitreal injection is form of administering treatment for various eye disorders, such as macular degeneration. Treatment usually consists of using anti-VEGF drugs (which prevent the development of new blood vessels), immunosuppressive agents or anti-inflammatory drugs.             &nb

What is inverted nipple correction surgery? The purpose of inverted nipple correction surgery is to place inverted nipples, also called flat or umbilicated nipples, in their natural position: protruding, rather than retracted. This is a simple operation of short duration, and it can be performed under local anaesthesia.     Why is the operation carried out? In some wom

What is Invisalign? Invisalign is an invisible orthodontics technique that allows the correction of your teeth to produce an improved smile. Invisalign does not use metal wires as braces do, and they are virtually invisible when being worn. Special trays are custom made for your teeth, and every few weeks you wear a new tray, designed to eventually straighten your teeth.   What

What are invisible braces? Invisible braces correct the position of the bones and teeth using appliances that are invisible to the eye. With this technique, the fixed appliances (braces) are placed on the inner side of the teeth, whereas with the conventional technique they are placed on the outer side. The same results are obtained with both techniques, but invisible braces are more aesthetica

What is in vitro fertilisation? In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a procedure in which an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in a laboratory. Once fertilised, the egg is transferred to the woman’s uterus, with the goal of successful pregnancy. It is a common fertility treatment. Why is in vitro fertilisation performed? This treatment is an option which can help a woman t