Medical dictionary

What are haemorrhoids? Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum. They occur when the small veins that line the anal canal (the tube that connects the rectum and the anus) become engorged with more blood than usual. Together with overlying tissue, they form one or more swollen lumps (piles).  We are all born with haemorrhoids,

What is a polypectomy? A polypectomy is a minimally-invasive procedure carried out with a colonoscope or hysteroscope to remove polyps in certain parts of the body such as the colon or uterus, therefore, the most common types of polypectomy are colon polypectomy and uterine polypectomy. Why is a polypectomy done? A polypectomy is done to remove polyps, which are abnormal gro

What are polyps? Polyps are abnormal tissue growths (clumps of cells) that appear as small bumps mostly on the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) or on the rectum (anus). It is also possible to develop polyps in the ear canal, cervix, stomach, nose, and uterus. Some people may develop only one whilst others can develop two or more at a time. They can either be on a stalk and therefo

What is the POSE®  procedure? The POSE® procedure is a non-surgical technique for stomach reduction. The operation is performed by using an endoscope, so it does not require incisions and does not leave scars. It is a form of minimally invasive surgery, designed for patients who are obese needing to lose weight for health reasons.   Why is it done? The POSE&r

What is primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)? Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic liver disease that affects the bile ducts. The disease causes inflammation and scarring in the bile ducts which causes the ducts to harden and narrow, affecting the transfer of bile liquid, which is used for digestion, from the liver to the small intestine. The disease eventually leads to cirrhosis o

What is radiofrequency treatment (RFA)? Radiofrequency (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure which can be used to treat varicose veins. It is performed under local anaesthetic, and uses the application of heat to damage tissue, meaning scar tissue forms. This closes the varicose vein and cuts it off, meaning it is destroyed. This type of treatment can be used on large varicose veins.

What are the main radiotherapy side effects in both children and adults? Radiotherapy side effects greatly vary depending on the overall administered dose and on the individual’s tolerance. The most common side effects include: Fatigue (asthenia) : it can occur during the treatment, although it can be associated with other disease-related factors or with other treatments. S

What is rectal cancer?Rectal cancer is a type of bowel cancer that occurs when cancer cells form in the rectum, the last 6-7 inches of the large intestine connecting the colon to the anus. Bowel cancer, or colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK.   What causes rectal cancer?In most cases, rectal ca

What is a rectosigmoidoscopy? A rectosigmoidoscopy is a test to examine the rectum and the lining of your sigmoid colon - the lower part of your large intestine. It is carried out to see if there’s any potential abnormal growths of tissue, also known as polyps, or to see if there is a tumour in its early stage. Using this test, the doctor can verify and (if need be) remove polyps which