Medical dictionary

What is rhinitis? Rhinitis is a condition where the nasal mucosa becomes inflamed or irritated. The nasal mucosa is the tissue lining of the inside of the nose that extends from the nostrils to the pharynx, which is the upper part of the throat. Rhinitis is a common condition and is thought to affect one in every five people in the UK. Rhinitis can be classified into three main groups:

What is rhinology? Rhinology delves into the intricate and delicate structures of the nasal cavity and sinuses, examining the functions and ailments affecting these regions. Specialists in this field possess a comprehensive understanding of the nasal passages, paranasal sinuses, and their interconnected systems, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wide array of conditions. Beyond allergies, i

What is rhinomanometry?Rhinomanometry is a technique used to objectively measure nasal pressure and airflow through the nostrils during breathing. It is accepted as a standard technique for measuring nasal airway resistance to detect possible obstructions in the airways.In order to carry out this test, a rhinomanometer is used, which is a type of manometer that measures airflow and resistance. Thi

What is a rhinoplasty?   A rhinoplasty, more commonly referred to as a ‘nose job’, is an operation performed to change the shape or size of the nose, whether for aesthetic or functional purposes (functional rhinoplasty).     Why is a rhinoplasty performed?   A rhinoplasty may be performed on those who are unhappy with the appearance of their

What is rhizarthrosis? Rhizarthrosis, also known as trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis, is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the thumb or, more precisely, the trapeziometacarpal joint of the hand. This degenerative disease involves chronic inflammation and it is caused by ageing and by the wearing of the cartilage between the first metacarpal bone and the trapezium bone. This

What is a rhizotomy?Rhizotomy (also called rhizolysis) is a non-invasive surgical technique that severs nerve roots in the spinal cord with highly localised heat generated with radiofrequency. The objective is to stop the nerves in the spine from sending pain signals to the brain. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia to numb the skin and with X-ray control and

What is a road traffic accident?   A road traffic accident is when at least one vehicle is involved in an accident on a road that is open to traffic and there is at least one person who is injured or killed.     What are the causes of road traffic accidents?   There are many different factors that can contribute to a road traffic accident.  

What is robotic spine surgery? Robotic spine surgery, or more accurately, robot-guided spine surgery, is a type of surgery which uses robotic systems and technology as an aid in the surgical procedure. It uses smart, autonomous instruments which can be operated remotely by the surgeon, and allow for increased precision and smaller incisions.   Why is it done? Robot-guided or robo

What is robotic-assisted surgery?Robotic-assisted surgery, or robotic surgery, using the da Vinci System, the Mako system by Stryker, among other systems, allows surgeons to perform surgical procedures in a very accurate way. Operations are performed with more precision, flexibility and control, compared to using conventional techniques. Robotic-assisted surgery is commonly associated wi