A kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) X-ray is a diagnostic test that can detect kidney stones and diagnose urinary tract disorders. A kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) X-ray is a diagnostic test that is used for detecting kidney stones and diagnosing multiple disorders of the urinary tract. This diagnostic examination is usually done by injecting contrast media in your veins....
What Is a Minimally Invasive Total Hip Replacement Surgery?
Minimally invasive hip arthroplasty uses a laparoscope to remove a damaged or diseased hip joint and replace it with hardware. This approach usually improves recovery time versus an open hip replacement surgery. Hip arthroplasty is also called hip replacement surgery. The hip consists of a ball (femoral head) that fits into a socket (acetabulum). The joint capsule and surrounding ligaments...
What Causes PCOS?
It is unknown what exactly causes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is unknown what exactly causes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with PCOS have higher androgen levels than those without PCOS, which has an important role in causing the disease. PCOS typically affects women in their reproductive years (aged between 15 and 44 years). The condition, however, can affect a...
What Does a Diverticulitis Attack Feel Like?
In many cases, diverticulosis doesn’t cause any troublesome symptoms. In many cases, diverticulosis doesn’t cause any troublesome symptoms. The condition may go undiagnosed till a routine colonoscopy is done. In some individuals, however, diverticulitis causes symptoms and may be referred to as a diverticulitis attack or flare-up. One may have multiple, recurring episodes of flare-ups. The symptoms usually occur suddenly and...
What Happens if a Baker’s Cyst Goes Untreated?
What is a Baker’s cyst? Although many Baker's cysts go away on their own, you should see a doctor to confirm that your swelling is a Baker's cyst and not something more serious. Baker's cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form behind the knee. They don’t often cause any problems or need treatment. Sometimes, if they are large or painful, they’ll...
What Is a Biliary Endoscopic Sphincterotomy?
What is a biliary endoscopic sphincterotomy? A sphincterotomy is a complex procedure that involves the use of an endoscope (a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light and camera at one end) and imaging techniques to manipulate the sphincter of Oddi. A biliary endoscopic sphincterotomy removes gallstones and bile duct blockages. A biliary endoscopic sphincterotomy is a procedure...
What Happens If You Leave a Bee Stinger In? 10 Emergency Conditions
The swelling spreads beyond the sting site or if it involves the face or neck is a medical emergency. A bee stinger must be removed on priority because it can cause serious consequences if it is not removed promptly. This is because the stinger releases venom. Hence, the longer it is left in the skin, the more venom will be...
What Exactly Is a Tumor?
What exactly is a tumor? Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny swelling to a large lump. Tumors can appear almost anywhere in the body. A tumor is an abnormal growth of cells, which serves no purpose in the body. A tumor develops when cells divide too quickly and without control. Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny...
What Is a Transthoracic Needle Biopsy (TNB)?
What is a transthoracic needle biopsy (TNB)? A transthoracic needle biopsy (TNB) removes a piece of lung tissue for examination and to diagnose lung conditions such as lung cancer. A transthoracic needle biopsy (TNB) is a method used by radiologists to remove a piece of lung tissue for examination. It involves inserting a long needle through the patient’s chest wall...
What Does the Spleen Do?
What is the spleen? The spleen helps with immune function. The spleen is an oval-shaped organ that sits under the rib cage on the left-hand side of the body. It is the size of a human fist. The function of spleen is to make new red blood cells and destroy old cells. It plays an important role- in the body’s...