Medical dictionary

What is nephrectomy? Nephrectomy is the surgical procedure in which all or part of the kidney is removed. It may require: Removal of part of the kidney (partial nephrectomy) Removal of the entire kidney, the surrounding fatty tissue, and possibly the adjoining adrenal gland, as well as nearby lymph nodes (radical nephrectomy) It is an intervention that is performed under general an

What is nephropathy? Nephropathy, also known as kidney disease, is any damage or disease to the kidneys. Nephropathy usually causes a loss of kidney function. If enough damage has occurred, you are considered to have kidney failure, a potentially fatal condition where the patient will need dialysis or a kidney transplant to replace the function of their kidneys. Kidney disease can be cla

What is nocturnal enuresis (adult bedwetting)? Nocturnal enuresis (adult bedwetting) is the involuntary action of urinating at night, but after the age where bladder control is well established. It can be a symptom of several underlying conditions. Prognosis If the bedwetting is a one-time occurrence or is very occasional, you likely don’t need to worry. However, if it happ

What is a vasectomy? The difference between a traditional and no-scalpel vasectomy is how the surgeon accesses the vas deferens. Vasectomy is a surgical procedure to cut or seal the tubes (vas deferens) that carry a man’s sperm, which means he can no longer make a woman pregnant. It stops sperm from getting into the man’s semen. When the man ejaculates, the semen has no

What is an overactive bladder? An overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition where the patient frequently experiences a sudden, and often urgent need to urinate. These urges can occur at any time, night or day, and can have a serious impact on a person’s life, including their self-esteem and social life. In a significant number of patients, overactive bladder comes coupled with a loss of uri

What are pearly penile papules? Pearly penile papules (PPPs), also known as genital angiofibroma or histoid papilloma, are benign, small growths occurring in clusters or rows on the head of the penis. Typically, they are flesh-coloured or white and look like pimples, but the size and colour can vary depending on the individual.       Are pearly penile papul

What is the pelvic floor? The pelvic floor is the set of muscles and ligaments that surround the lower part of the abdominal cavity. It supports all the pelvic organs (bladder and urethra, uterus and vagina in women and rectum in men) and ensures their normal functioning. The pelvic floor is somewhat dynamic, it adapts to our movement but always maintains an adequate tension that holds the orga

What is pelvic floor reconstruction? Pelvic floor reconstruction is a surgical procedure involving the repositioning of the internal organs of the female pelvis. Why is it done? The goal of pelvic floor reconstruction is to position pelvic structures in a manner that aims to correct prolapse symptoms, urinary and/or faecal incontinence, pelvic symptoms and preserving sexual

What is pelvic pain syndrome? Pelvic pain syndrome, which may also be referred to as chronic pelvic pain, is a condition in which women have pain in their lower abdomen, often experienced during their menstrual cycle, but not exclusively. Pelvic pain syndrome is considered chronic if it lasts for more than six months, and must be assessed by a specialist gynaecologist or urologist as it can hav