Medical dictionary

What is analysed? Toxoplasmosis analysis involves detecting antibodies to the Toxoplasma gondii parasite in the blood to diagnose current or past infection. What does the result mean? The result indicates the presence or absence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii. A positive result suggests current or past infection, while a negative result indicates no detectable antibodies. Why u

What is a trabeculectomy? A trabeculectomy is a glaucoma operation usually done under local anaesthetic, via an injection beside the eye. It aims to reduce eye pressure caused by glaucoma, which can slowly damage - and even cause permanent loss of - eyesight, by draining fluid out of the eye.       Why would someone need a trabeculectomy?    Th

What is analysed? Trace elements are a subset of essential minerals in the body that play an important role in various physiological functions, including the production of enzymes and hormones. Trace elements include: chromium copper fluoride iodine iron manganese molybdenumv seleniumv cinc The trace elements test measures the level of trace elements, mainly in the

What is tracheal stenosis?   Tracheal stenosis refers to a narrowing of the trachea, more commonly referred to as the windpipe. It occurs as a result of the formation of scar tissue in the trachea, or due a malformation of the cartilage in the trachea. The narrowing, if mild in nature, may not be noticed, but if the narrowing becomes more severe (over 50 per cent of the airway) the

What is a tracheostomy? A tracheostomy involves opening up the trachea, or windpipe, through a surgically made hole. A tracheostomy tube or cannula is placed in the opening so the patient can breathe and so that any lung secretions are removed.       Why are they done? It tends to be done due to obstruction at the oropharynx, larynx, or upper part of the trach

What is traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)? Chinese medicine is a traditional style of treatment and medicine which is based on over 2000 years of Chinese medical experience and practice. Over thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has evolved and it is now increasingly being used as a complementary health approach or treatment form in both Europe and the United States. While we

What is transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVR)? TAVR is a minimally-invasive procedure used to repair the aortic valve that fails to open properly by inserting a tube into the damaged part. It is performed on patients who have aortic valve stenosis and who have been considered too high-risk for open-heart surgery.  What is aortic valve sten

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure used to treat depression and other forms of mental illness, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Often TMS is used when other treatment options have been exhausted and unsuccessful.   Why

What is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)? Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) involves the use of small, low-voltage electrical currents to treat pain. The electrical currents are delivered from a battery-powered TENS machine which patients are given to use at home. The TENS machine is small and includes leads which are connected to sticky pads called electro