Medical dictionary

What is eardrum perforation? Perforation of the eardrum is a rupture or hole produced in the membrane that separates the middle ear from the outer ear. This injury can cause infections by the entrance of bacteria to the ear, even causing hearing loss. However, in most cases a perforated ear drum will heal itself within a few weeks. If you think you have a perforated eardrum, see your GP.

What is a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO)? Periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is a surgical procedure used to treat certain hip conditions, particularly hip dysplasia in young adults and acetabular retroversion. It involves repositioning the acetabulum, the socket part of the hip joint, to improve its coverage of the femoral head (the ball part of the hip joint). By reorienting the acetabu

What is analysed? During pericardial fluid analysis, various components and aspects of the pericardial fluid are examined. This includes assessing cell counts, protein levels, and the presence of any abnormal substances. What does the result mean? The results of the analysis carry crucial implications in a medical context. They can reveal the presence of infections, inflammation, or o

What is pericarditis? Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, which is the thin outer sac that surrounds the heart. The pericardium holds the heart in place and helps it to function properly. The pericardium is made up of two thin layers of tissue, which are separated by a fluid. Pericarditis can be either acute, chronic or recurrent. Acute pericarditis comes on suddenly, and th

What is peri-implantitis? Peri-implantitis is a dental implant infection, which can occur following dental implants if proper dental hygiene is not followed.  Symptoms of peri-implantitis: An infected dental implant (peri-implantitis) may cause the following symptoms: bleeding or pus fever throbbing pain redness and swelling in the gums bad breath difficulty

What is perimenopause? Perimenopause, sometimes also called the ‘menopause transition’, is the period leading up to the menopause. Menopause, which is the more well-known term, is the medical definition of the permanent end of menstrual cycles. Perimenopause starts when the first features of approaching the menopause occur such as menopausal symptoms and menstrual changes, and en

What are perineal wounds?A perineal wound is often sustained at childbirth. This may be in the form of a tear at the time of the delivery or a planned cut called an episiotomy. The perineal tear may involve the skin of the perineum and the lining of the vagina alone when it is superficial, but can extend to the muscles of the perineum and, at its worst, involve the muscles around the back passage

What is periodontal cleaning? Periodontal cleaning is the stage following periodontal surgery for periodontitis. This is important for preventing tooth loss and damage. Periodontal cleaning consists of periodic visits to the dentist (about three times a year) to have your mouth completely disinfected in order to remove any signs of plaque or tartar, since the bacteria responsible for periodonti

What is periodontal surgery?Periodontal surgery is the technique used to treat the tissues of the mouth affected by periodontal disease or pyorrhoea, a chronic bacterial infection that attacks the gums, ligaments and bone surrounding the tooth. Periodontal surgery allows the dentist to clean the contaminated tissue, smooth the root surfaces of the damaged dental piece and eliminate the pockets of