Medical dictionary

What are varicose veins? Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins that are visible below the surface of the skin. They tend to be blue or purple in colour and usually develop on the legs. Varicose veins may not be serious but they can cause aching, pain, itching and restlessness in the affected leg and their appearance can be unsightly. In some cases skin changes can occur (haemosiderin

What is obesity?Obesity is a medical condition defined as having an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat on the body, enough so that it can be a risk to the health of the person.The most common way of classifying the amount of weight on the body, and what constitutes as a healthy balance, is the body mass index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms, by your heig

What is obesity surgery? Obesity surgery, otherwise known as bariatric or weight-loss surgery, describes a range of procedures that are designed to treat people with obesity. Whilst there are different types of gastric surgery, the aim of the procedure is always to reduce the size of the stomach. General surgeons perform obesity surgery.  Why would you do it? Bariatric surgery is

What is oesophageal cancer? Oesophageal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the oesophagus (gullet or food pipe), which is the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. It occurs when abnormal cells grow in an uncontrollable way. It is more common in people in their 60s and 70s and occurs in men more than women. What are the symptoms of oesophageal cancer? The sy

What is oesophageal cancer surgery? Oesophageal cancer is a form of cancer that affects the oesophagus which is the tube that takes food from the throat to the stomach. Cancer of the oesophagus occurs when cancer cells develop, starting in the inner layer of the oesophagus, and can spread into the other layers, and to other parts of the body. Surgery aims to remove the part of the oesophagus af

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 pancreas surgery? Pancreas surgery describes a range of procedures performed to treat the following illnesses: Acute pancreatitis Chronic pancreatitis Pancreatic cancer Surgery for treating acute and chronic pancreatitis is called a cholecystectomy which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Surgery for treating pancreatic cancer is often the only way to cure thi

What is pancreatic cancer?The pancreas is a large gland in the abdomen, which produces enzymes that aid in digestion. Pancreatic cancer is when abnormal cells develop in the pancreas and multiply out of control. As these cells do not function normally, they hinder bodily functions as they multiply, eventually leading to death if not treated. Cancer can develop in different parts of the p