Medical dictionary

What is a mid-pregnancy anomaly scan?   A mid-pregnancy anomaly scan, also known as a morphological or 20 week ultrasound, together with the first scan or dating scan, is the most important and detailed ultrasound performed during a pregnancy. It is carried out between the 20th and 22nd week of the pregnancy.     What does it involve?   A mid-pregnancy

What is ultrasound therapy? Ultrasound therapy is a physiotherapy technique that involves using ultrasound, i.e. sound vibrations greater than 20,000 Hz to treat soft tissue lesions, such as muscle injuries and tendonitis. Sound is formed by vibrations. The acoustic spectrum is split into three zones: Infrasound, with vibrations of frequency lower than 20Hz Audible sounds, with

What is an umbilical hernia? An umbilical hernia is a type of hernia that can be defined as parts of the internal organs protruding through a weakness in the surrounding cavity. In the case of an umbilical hernia, abdominal fat or part of the bowel passes through an area around the navel. What are the symptoms of an umbilical hernia? Umbilical hernias are very common, parti

What is an umbilicoplasty? Umbilicoplasty is a cosmetic surgery aimed at reshaping the belly button. The procedure consists of removing excess skin in and around the belly button in order to improve its appearance by adjusting its size, repairing an umbilical hernia or turning a protruding belly button inwards. The surgery gained popularity among patients that see cha

What is cryptorchidism? An undescended testicle, medically known as cryptorchidism, is a common condition in young male children where one of the testicles has not moved into its usual position in the scrotum. It can occur with one (unilateral cryptorchidism) or both (bilateral cryptorchidism) testes. It is a problem that is thought to affect approximately 4% of baby boys, although in most c

What is unexplained weight loss?   Unexplained weight loss is when you notice a significant drop in your body weight, especially when you are not trying to lose weight. Unlike when someone is intentionally trying to lose weight, this type of weight loss isn't due to a change of diet, activity or lifestyle, but instead comes on suddenly and is unexplained.  

What is an upper eyelid filler?Upper eyelid filler is a treatment to add volume to the upper eyelids and to give a more youthful appearance. It involves the injection of a filler into the upper eyelid, to improve a hollow appearance that can occur over time as the skin loses fat cells, leading to a more sunken appearance, and with a darker skin tone. Eyelid filler treatments can also be

What is upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgery?   Upper gastrointestinal (GI) surgery is surgery performed to treat pathologies of either the upper gastrointestinal tract (small bowel), gall bladder, liver, pancreas or oesophagus.       The upper gastrointestinal (GI) includes the oesophagus (the food pipe), the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine)

What is analysed? Urea analysis involves examining the levels of urea, a waste product formed during the breakdown of proteins in the liver. By measuring urea concentrations in blood or urine, healthcare professionals gain insights into kidney function and overall metabolic health. Result interpretation: If the urea result falls slightly outside the normal range, it could indicate po