Definition Confidentiality is the right of an individual to have personal, identifiable medical information kept private. Such information should be available only to the physician of record and other health care and insurance personnel as necessary. As of 2003, patient confidentiality was protected by federal statute. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is a means for the patient to self-administer analgesics (pain medications) intravenously by using a computerized pump, which introduces specific doses into an intravenous line. Purpose The purpose of PCA is improved pain control. The patient receives immediate delivery of pain medication without the need for a nurse to administer it. The patient controls when the medication is given. More importantly, PCA uses more frequent but smaller doses of medication, and thus provides more even levels of medication within the patient's body. Syringe-injected pain management by a nurse requires larger doses of medication given less frequently. Larger doses peak shortly after administration, often causing undesirable side effects such as nausea and difficulty in breathing. Their pain-suppressing effects also often wear off before the next dose is scheduled. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers Expert

Definition Patient rights encompass legal and ethical issues in the provider-patient relationship, including a person's right to privacy, the right to quality medical care without prejudice, the right to make informed decisions about care and treatment options, and the right to refuse treatment. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition A physical examination is the evaluation of a body to determine its state of health. The techniques of inspection include palpation (feeling with the hands and/or fingers), percussion (tapping with the fingers), auscultation (listening), and smell. A complete health assessment also includes gathering information about a person's medical history and lifestyle, conducting laboratory tests, and screening for disease. These elements constitute the data on which a diagnosis is made and a plan of treatment is developed. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

This website is a resource for patients seeking more information about specific disease processes and how physical therapy can help treat the disabilities related to the process. Patient Provider

Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis

Definition Post-surgical pain is a complex response to tissue trauma during surgery that stimulates hypersensitivity of the central nervous system. The result is pain in areas not directly affected by the surgical procedure. Post-operative pain may be experienced by an inpatient or outpatient. It can be felt after any surgical procedure, whether it is minor dental surgery or a triple-bypass heart operation. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Postoperative care is the management of a patient after surgery. This includes care given during the immediate postoperative period, both in the operating room and postanesthesia care unit (PACU), as well as during the days following surgery. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Preoperative care is the preparation and management of a patient prior to surgery. It includes both physical and psychological preparation. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Robot-assisted surgery involves the use of a robot under the direction and guidance of a surgeon. Purpose Robot-assisted surgery provides many benefits in the surgical care of patients. Computer-assisted robots provide exact motion and trajectories to minimize the side-effects of surgical intervention. Surgeon-guided robotics allow the surgeon to access patient anatomy with smaller incisions. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Arthroplasty is surgery performed to relieve pain and restore range of motion by realigning or reconstructing a dysfunctional joint. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers Expert

Definition A second opinion is the process of seeking an evaluation by another doctor or surgeon to confirm the diagnosis and treatment plan of a primary physician, or to offer an alternative diagnosis and/or treatment approach. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Stitches and staples are two methods by which a wound may be closed. Stitches use specialized needles and thread to "sew" a wound closed. Staples are thin pieces of metal that are placed with a stapling device through the edges of a wound to hold it closed. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Talking to the doctor is a fundamental requirement for an accurate exchange of information between patient and health care provider. It includes communicating private or potentially sensitive information, and requires a climate of trust. Without trust and accurate information, treatment and healing is difficult at best and impossible at worst. Purpose The purpose of talking to a doctor is to exchange information and obtain a cure or relief from pain and suffering. This outcome can only occur in an atmosphere of openness and mutual confidence. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

Definition Tendon repair refers to the surgical repair of damaged or torn tendons, which are cord-like structures made of strong fibrous connective tissue that connect muscles to bones. The shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle joints are the most commonly affected by tendon injuries. Purpose The goal of tendon repair is to restore the normal function of joints or their surrounding tissues following a tendon laceration. Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers