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Glossary

abduction - to draw away from the midline of the body or from an adjacent part or limb.

aeration - to expose (a medium or tissue) to air.

angora - wool made from the hair of an angora goat or rabbit.

amplitude - the amount by which a voltage or current changes from zero or an average value.

anodized - to coat a metal, especially magnesium or aluminum, with a protective film by chemical or electrolytic means.

antepartum - the period prior to childbirth; before delivery.

anterior - located on or near the front of an organ or on the stomach surface of the body in humans.

autoclavable - able to withstand the action of a heavy vessel for conducting chemical reactions under high pressure.

bariatric - a branch of medicine that deals with the control and treatment of obesity and allied diseases.

cervical - of or pertaining to the cervix or neck.

cetrimide - a powerful disinfectant.

coccyx - a small triangular bone at the base of the spinal column in humans, consisting of several fused rudimentary vertebrae; also called a tailbone.

convalescent - a person who is recovering from illness.

convexity - a shape that curves or bulges outward.

convoluted - rolled up together or with one part over another.

edematous - swollen with an excessive accumulation of fluid.

epoxy - tough, very adhesive, and resistant to chemicals. They are used to make protective coatings and glues.

ergonomic - equipment designed, usually for the workplace, intended to maximize productivity by reducing operator fatigue and discomfort.

exudate - a fluid that has oozed out of a tissue or its capillaries due to injury or inflammation.

flange - projection used for strength or for attaching to another object.

Gastroesophageal Reflux - a chronic condition in which acid from the stomach flows back into the lower esophagus, causing pain or tissue damage.

hydrocolloid - a substance that forms a gel with water.

hydrogel - a gel in which the liquid is water.

knurled - one of a series of small ridges or grooves on the surface or edge of a metal object, such as a thumbscrew, to aid in gripping.

lumbo-sacral - of or pertaining to the loins and sacrum; as, the lumbosacral nerve, a branch of one of the lumber nerves which passes over the sacrum.

malodorous - having an unpleasant or offensive odor; smelling bad.

media - the middle layer of an artery or lymphatic vessel.

metatarsal - any bone of the foot between the ankle and the toes.

nebulizer - a device that reduces liquid to an extremely fine cloud, especially used for delivering medication to the deep part of the respiratory tract.

necrosis - death of cells or tissues through injury or disease, especially in a localized area of the body.

neoprene - a synthetic rubber that is resistant to oils and aging; used in waterproof products.

occlusive - of or being a bandage or dressing that closes a wound and keeps it from the air.

orthopedic - the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention or correction of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments.

polyethylene - a lightweight thermoplastic; used especially in packaging and insulation.

polyurethane - any of various synthetic resins used to make tough resistant coatings, adhesives, foams, and electrical insulation.

sedentary - accustomed to sit or rest a great deal or to take little exercise.

stasis - an abnormal state in which the normal flow of a liquid (such as blood) is slowed or stopped.

stoma - a surgically constructed opening, especially one in the abdominal wall that permits the passage of waste after a colostomy or ileostomy.

torso - the trunk of the human body.