Medical dictionary

What is oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery? Oncoplastic and reconstructive breast surgery rebuilds the breast after breast cancer surgery, with the aim of reducing scarring and preserving as much of the existing breast tissue as possible. There are various surgical techniques and procedures available and the treatment usually requires the input of a multidisciplinary team, inclu

What is a One Stop Breast Clinic? A ‘One Stop Breast Clinic’ is one in which patients with any concerning breast symptoms, such as a lump, asymmetry, breast pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes can be assessed in an outpatient clinic for an immediate and accurate diagnosis in a matter of hours. This approach to breast cancer diagnosis aims to provide convenience and reassurance t

What is a one-stop clinic? A one-stop clinic aims to provide its patients with their initial consultation, a diagnosis and treatment plan within one visit to the clinic. In a one-stop clinic, there is a variety of staff (multiple specialists, nurses, imaging technicians etcetera.) to meet all the potential needs of the patient during their visit. What happens at a one-stop clinic? One

What is online psychological therapy? When suffering from mental health conditions, psychotherapy is the gold standard treatment, although the ideal treatment depends greatly on the type of illness and on the patient’s circumstances. While many patients either seek out, or are referred to psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors, who they will visit on a face-to-face basis, sometimes

What is onychomycosis?Onychomycosis or nail fungus is a common fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails. It causes nails to thicken, discolour and become brittle at the edges. If the condition is mild, treatment may not be needed, however, if the nails become too thick and cause pain and discomfort, medical intervention will be required. Nail fungus is more common among adults, particu

What is open-angle glaucoma? Open-angle glaucoma is one of the most common types of glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition that causes damage to the optic nerves of the eyes, and which becomes worse over time. If it continues to worsen, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Open-angle glaucoma comes on slowly and painlessly, and patients can go for years without noticing that they have it. This i

What is orthopantomography?   Orthopantomography, also known as an OPG X-ray (or simply OPG), panoramic radiography, or a pantogram is a type of X-ray scan that gives a panoramic or wide view of the lower face. It can display all the teeth on both jaws on one film, including those that have not surfaced or erupted yet, such as wisdom teeth. It also offers a view of the jawbone and the t

What is ophthalmic brachytherapy? Ophthalmic brachytherapy is a technique used to treat eye tumours. This technique involves removing the tumour without affecting the eye or eyesight. Treatment aims to get rid of cancerous cells by irradiation. Why is ophthalmic brachytherapy required? Ophthalmic brachytherapy is used to remove an ocular tumour while preserving the eyeball. It can be

What’s being analysed? The test for opioids measures the presence and concentration of opioids, a class of drugs commonly used for pain management, in the bloodstream or urine. What does the result signify? The result of the test for opioids indicates whether opioids are present in the body and at what concentration. Positive results may suggest opioid use or exposure. Why co