Difficulty Swallowing – Dysphagia
What is difficulty swallowing Difficulty swallowing is also called dysphagia. It is usually a sign of a problem with your throat or esophagus -the muscular tube that moves food and liquids from the back of your mouth to your stomach. Although dysphagia can happen to anyone, it is most common in older adults, babies, and people who have problems of the brain or nervous system. There are many different problems that can prevent the...
Colostomy (and closure)
Introduction A colostomy is a common surgical procedure that pulls a section of the large intestine (colon) through an opening in the abdominal wall. The opening is known as a stoma. A pouch is placed over the stoma to collect waste products that would usually pass through the colon and out of the body through the rectum and anus (your back passage). A colostomy can be permanent or temporary. When is a colostomy needed? A colostomy is...
Colectomy
Introduction Colectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of your colon. Your colon, also called your large intestine, is a long tube-like organ at the end of your digestive system. Colectomy may be necessary to treat or prevent diseases and conditions that affect your colon. There are various types of colectomy operations: Total colectomy involves removing the entire colon. Partial colectomy involves removing...
Bunion Removal
Introduction A bunion is a bony deformity of the joint at the base of the big toe. This joint is known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. The medical name for a bunion is hallux valgus. Structure of the foot The foot is divided into three parts: The hindfoot The midfoot The forefoot The forefoot (front part of the foot) is made up of five bones called the metatarsals. These join the midfoot to the bones inside the toes....
Breast Biopsy (Excision)
What is the test? In an excisional biopsy of the breast, Dr. B C Shah makes an incision in the skin and removes all or part of the abnormal tissue for examination under a microscope. Unlike needle biopsies, a surgical biopsy leaves a visible scar on the breast and sometimes causes a noticeable change in the breast’s shape. It’s a good idea to discuss the placement and length of the incision with your surgeon beforehand. Also ask Dr. B...
Breast Abscess Drainage
Introduction A breast abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast. Most abscesses develop just under the skin and are caused by a bacterial infection. Breast abscesses are painful, swollen lumps that may also: Be red Feel hot Cause the surrounding skin to swell Cause a high temperature (fever) What causes a breast abscess? Breast abscesses are often linked to mastitis, a condition that causes breast pain and...