|
Abdominoperineal resection
The surgical removal of the anus, rectum and sigmoid colon, resulting
in the need for a permanent colostomy
Abscess
A localized formation of pus in a cavity caused by the disintegration or
displacement of tissue due to bacterial infection
Acetaminophen
A drug that reduces pain and fever (but not inflammation)
Acute
Abrupt onset that usually is severe; happens for a limited period of time
Adenoma
Benign (non-cancerous) polyps that are considered precursors, or the first
step toward colon and rectal cancer
Adhesion
A band of scar tissue that connects two surfaces of the body that normally
are separate
Adjuvant therapy
Treatment provided in addition to the primary treatment to prevent cancer
recurrence
Adverse effect
A negative or harmful effect
Analgesic
Medicine with pain-relieving qualities
Anemia
A condition called a low red blood cell count. It may occurs when there is
not enough hemoglobin or vitamin B12 in a person’s blood. Hemoglobin is a
substance in the red blood cells that enables the blood to transport oxygen
through the body.
Antibiotic
Medication used to treat bacterial infection
Antibodies
Proteins produced by the body to protect itself from foreign substances
(such as bacteria or viruses)
Antigens
Substances that cause an immune response in the body. The body produces
antibodies to fight antigens, or harmful substances, and try to eliminate them.
Anti-inflammatory
Medication used to reduce pain, swelling or other irritation
Air contrast barium enema
Also called double contrast barium enema -- an X-ray examination of
the entire large intestine (colon) and rectum in which barium and air are
introduced gradually into the colon by a rectal tube. This test is recommended
along with flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years, starting at age 50, to
screen for colorectal cancer and polyps.
Anal fissure
A split or crack in the lining of the anal opening, usually caused by the
passage of very hard or watery stools
Anastomosis
A surgical joining of two ducts, blood vessels or bowel segments to allow
flow from one to the other
Aneurysm
The abnormal enlargement or bulging of a blood vessel, caused by damage or
weakness in the blood vessel wall
Angiogram
A technique that uses dye to highlight blood vessels
Anoscopy
The examination of the anus with a short, metal scope. The anoscopy procedure
is used to look for hemorrhoids, anal polyps or other causes of bright-red
rectal bleeding.
Anus
The opening of the rectum positioned in the fold between the buttocks,
situated at one end of the digestive tract where waste is expelled
APC
A type of gene that normally works by producing a protein to help slow down
the rate at which cells divide and grow (APC is a "tumor suppressor
gene.")
Asymptomatic
No symptoms; no clear sign that disease is present
Banding
A technique where chromosomes are stained with fluorescent or chemical dyes to
determine their characteristics
Barium
A substance that, when swallowed or given rectally as an enema, makes the
digestive tract visible on X-rays (also referred to as a "contrast
medium")
Barium enema
A way of examining the colon in which barium is given as an enema (through
the rectum). Usually gas is then blown in to make the barium spread over the
lining of the colon, producing an outline of the colon on X-ray to reveal any
irregularities in the lining, such as a polyp.
Benign tumor
A non-cancerous growth that does not spread to nearby tissues or other parts
of the body
Biofeedback
A method of learning to modify a particular bodily function by monitoring it
with the aid of an electronic device that may produce sight or sound signals.
Pelvic floor biofeedback may be recommended for some patients who have an
underlying pelvic floor neuromuscular dysfunction.
Biological therapy
See immunotherapy
Biopsy
The removal and examination of a sample of tissue with a microscope to see
whether cancer cells are present
Brachytherapy
The treatment of cancer with a radiation source that is applied in or near the
tumor
Cancer
A general term for more than 100 diseases in which there is an uncontrolled,
abnormal growth of cells. Cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and
lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Cannulas
Tubes that hold the laparoscope and instruments, and allow access to the
abdominal cavity for performance of laparoscopic surgery
Carcinoma
Malignant (cancerous) growth that begins in the lining or covering of an
organ and tends to invade surrounding tissue and metastasize (travel to and grow
in) to other regions of the body. The tumor is firm, irregular and nodular with
a well-defined border.
Carcinoma in situ
Cancer that involves only the tissue in which it began; it has not spread to
other tissues
Catheter
A thin, flexible, plastic tube. A urinary catheter is a tube that is
inserted into the bladder to drain urine.
CAT scan
Computerized axial tomography, an X-ray technique that produces a film
showing a detailed cross-section of tissue
Chemotherapy
Treatment with anticancer drugs. In cancer treatment, chemotherapy refers to
the use of drugs whose main effect is either to kill or slow the growth of
rapidly multiplying cells. Chemotherapy usually includes a combination of drugs,
since this is more effective than a single drug given alone. There are many drug
combinations used to treat prostate cancer.
Chronic
Persisting over a long period of time
Clear margins
An area of normal tissue that surrounds cancerous tissue, as seen during a
microscopic examination
Clinical trial
A research program conducted with patients to evaluate a new medical
treatment, drug or device
Colectomy, partial
A surgical procedure that involves removing part of the colon with
anastomosis (or a joining) of the ends that remain. This
is used to treat cancer of the colon or severe, chronic ulcerative colitis.
Colectomy, segmental
A surgical procedure that involves removing segments of the colon.
This is used to treat cancer of the colon or severe, chronic ulcerative
colitis.
Colectomy, total
A surgical procedure that involves removing the entire colon, with the small
intestine being attached to the rectum. This is used to
treat cancer of the colon or severe, chronic ulcerative colitis.
Colitis
See ulcerative colitis.
Colon
The last six feet of the intestine (except for the last eight inches, which
is called the rectum); synonymous with the "large intestine" or
"large bowel"
Colon cancer
A malignant (cancerous) tumor arising from the inner wall of the large
intestine. Although the exact causes of colon cancer are not known, it appears
that both hereditary and environmental factors play a role in its development.
The early stages of cancer may have no symptoms. Therefore, regular screening is
important.
Colon and rectal surgeon
Experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of colon and rectal
problems. Colon and rectal surgeons treat benign and malignant conditions,
perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat problems when
necessary. They have completed advanced training in the treatment of colon and
rectal problems in addition to full training in general surgery.
Colonoscopy
An outpatient procedure in which a physician inserts a colonoscope (a long,
flexible instrument about Ѕ inch in diameter) in the rectum and advances it to
the large intestine (colon) to view the rectum and entire colon
Colostomy
The surgical creation of an opening between the surface of the skin and the
colon; also referred to as a large intestine stoma
Computed axial tomography (CAT scan or CT scan)
A technique in which multiple X-rays of the body are taken from different
angles in a very short period of time. These images are collected by a computer
to give a series of cross-sectional "slices" of the body. Contrast
material. such as barium. can be given to distinguish the bowel from the muscle,
or the bladder from the rectum.
Constipation
Difficult, infrequent or incomplete passage of stools. Constipation usually
is caused by inadequate fiber in the diet or a disruption of regular routine or
diet. Constipation can also be caused by overuse of laxatives. Constipation is
rarely the sign of a more serious medical condition.
Contraindication
A factor that makes use of a drug or other treatment inadvisable
Corticosteroids
Anti-inflammatory drugs (for example, prednisone) used to treat
gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. These
powerful drugs often produce dramatic results but also cause severe side effects
when used over a long period.
Crohn's disease
A chronic inflammatory disease that involves all layers of the intestinal
wall. It primarily affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the
ileum, but it can affect any part of the large or small intestine, stomach or
esophagus. Crohn's disease can disrupt the normal function of the bowel in a
number of ways.
Desmoid tumors
Growths of scar tissue that are very tough and firm. Desmoid
tumors are rare among the general public, but are found in 12 percent of
patients with familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP.
Diaphragm
Thin, dome-shaped muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest. When the
muscle contracts, the dome flattens, increasing the volume of the chest.
Diarrhea
A condition in which bowel movements are passed more often than usual and in
a liquid state
Digestive diseases
Disorders that cause the malfunctioning of the digestive system, so that it
is no longer turning food into fuel for energy, maintaining the body structure
or eliminating waste products properly. Digestive diseases range from the
occasional upset stomach, to the more life-threatening colon cancer, and
encompass disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, gall bladder and
pancreas.
Digital rectal exam (DRE)
When the doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum. Some tumors of
the rectum and prostate gland can be felt during a DRE.
Diverticulitis
An inflammation or infection of small sacs or outpouchings (diverticula) of
the inner lining of the intestine that protrude through the intestinal wall
Diverticulosis
Presence of small sacs or outpouchings (diverticula) of the inner lining of
the intestine that protrude through the intestinal wall. These sacs form in
weakened areas of the bowel.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid)
The material that controls the genetics and hereditary pertaining to each
cell
Double contrast barium enema
See air contrast barium enema.
Duodenum
The first part of the small intestine, connecting with the lower opening of
the stomach and extending to the jejunum
Endoscopy
A method of physical examination using a lighted, flexible instrument that
allows a physician to see the inside of the digestive tract. The endoscope can
be passed through the mouth or through the anus, depending on which part of the
digestive tract is being examined. This method is referred to by different names
depending on the area of examination, such as: esophagoscopy (esophagus),
astroscopy (stomach), upper endoscopy (small intestine), sigmoidoscopy (lower
part of the large intestine), and colonoscopy (entire large intestine).
Endosonography
Also called rectal ultrasound, is a diagnostic tool used to visualize the
anal sphincter muscles to diagnose the source of bowel incontinence and to
evaluate abnormal or cancerous growths. High-frequency sound waves are used to
produce images and precisely identify abnormalities. Ultrasound can be used to
locate the exact position of the tear in a muscle, even before bowel
incontinence becomes a problem.
Enema
Injection of fluid into the rectum and colon to induce a bowel movement
Epidural catheter
A small tube (catheter) passed into the space between the spinal cord and
spinal column. Pain medication is then delivered through the tube, numbing the
lower abdominal area.
Erythrocytes
Red blood cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to cells in all parts of
the body. Erythrocytes also carry carbon dioxide from the cells back to the
lungs.
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
An examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin flexible
tube that is placed down the throat. Before the EGD
procedure, an anesthetic spray is used to numb the back of the throat, and
sedation is given for the 15-minute exam.
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
A syndrome in which a gene mutation that influences the development
of colon, rectal, and other cancers is inherited in a dominant pattern.
Dominant inheritance means that only one mutated copy of the gene needs
to be received for the disease to be passed on. FAP patients usually have
hundreds, and sometimes thousands of pre-cancerous polyps developing at a very
early age. FAP is defined as the presence of more than 100 benign (adenomatous)
polyps in the large intestine at one examination. Some FAP patients with a mild
version of the disease have less than 100 adenomas; in these patients the
diagnosis is made by family history, or by finding the mutation during genetic
testing.
Fecal diversion
Surgical creation of an opening of part of the colon (colostomy) or small
intestine (ileostomy) to the surface of the skin. The opening provides a
passageway for stool to exit the body.
Fecal incontinence
Inability to retain stool, resulting in bowel accidents
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
Stool testing for blood, which is recommended every year starting at age 50,
in addition to the flexible sigmoidoscopy test every five years, to screen for
colon cancer and polyps
Fistula
An abnormal connection that forms between two internal organs or between two
different parts of the intestine. This is a common complication of Crohn's
disease.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
A routine outpatient procedure in which the inside of the lower large
intestine (called the sigmoid colon) is examined. Flexible sigmoidoscopies are
commonly used to evaluate bowel disorders, rectal bleeding, or polyps (usually
benign growths), and to screen people over age 50 for colon and rectal cancer.
During the procedure, a physician uses a sigmoidoscope (a long, flexible
instrument about 1/2 inch in diameter) to view the lining of the rectum and the
large intestine. The sigmoidoscope is inserted through the rectum and advanced
into the large intestine (colon) to view the lining of the rectum and the lower
third of the large intestine (sigmoid colon).
Fluoroscopy
A continuous X-ray technique that allows the physician to observe how an
organ performs its normal function; for example, how the esophagus works during
swallowing.
Gas
A product of digestion that is made primarily of odorless vapors — carbon
dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and sometimes methane. The unpleasant odor
is due to bacteria in the large intestine that release small amounts of gases
containing sulfur. Everyone has gas and eliminates it by burping or passing it
through the rectum. In many instances people think they have too much gas, when
in reality they have normal amounts. Most people produce one to three pints of
intestinal gas in 24 hours, and pass gas an average of 14 times a day.
Gastroenterologist
Experts in the treatment of diseases of the digestive
(gastrointestinal) tract. They have completed advanced training in the treatment
of digestive problems.
Gene
The basic unit of heredity found in all cells. Each gene occupies a certain
location on a chromosome (a linear thread in the nucleus of a cell that contains
the DNA that transfers genetic information). Genes are self-producing, minuscule
structures capable under certain circumstances of giving rise to a new
character, also known as a mutation. Hereditary traits are controlled by pairs
of genes in the same position on a pair of chromosomes.
Genetic counseling
A process in which a genetic counselor obtains a complete family and
personal medical history in order to determine the probable existence of a
genetic problem occurring within a family. The interpretation and implications
of genetic testing are discussed. Often used for prospective parents in order to
provide information about risks of diseases prior to conception, or during
pregnancy. A genetic work-up also helps inform those who are at risk of
inheriting hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and familial
adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
Genetic testing
Blood or tissue tests that may be ordered to detect the presence of genetic
abnormalities that predispose a person to certain diseases, such as cancer. For
patients and families suspected of having an inherited disease it may be
possible to find the mutation causing the disease through genetic testing of
blood. Genetic counseling should be done by experts before genetic tests are
performed.
Grade
A labeling system indicating how aggressive a cancer is
Hemorrhoids
Swollen blood vessels which line the anal opening, caused by excess pressure
from the straining during a bowel movement, persistent diarrhea or pregnancy
Hepatitis
A disease in which the liver is inflamed. A viral infection is usually the
cause of hepatitis, although sometimes toxins or drugs are the cause.
Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
HNPCC is a syndrome in which a gene mutation that influences the development
of colon, rectal and other cancers is inherited in a dominant pattern. Dominant
inheritance means that only one mutated copy of the gene needs to be received
for the disease to be transferred to the next generation. Colon and rectal
cancer occurs frequently in HNPCC families, whose lifetime risk of the disease
is up to 70 percent. HNPCC causes cancer to occur more frequently in the uterus,
ovary, stomach, small bowel, kidney and bladder.
Hormonal therapy
The use of hormones to treat cancer patients by removing, blocking or adding
to the effects of a hormone on an organ or part of the body
Hormones
Chemicals produced by glands in the body. Hormones control the actions of
certain cells or organs
Ileal (J) Pouch
A pouch is used to replace the rectum after a total proctocolectomy as a
reservoir for stool.There are four forms of the ileal pouch, named after the
shape in which the end of the small intestine (the ileum) is placed before it is
sewn (or stapled) to make a pouch. The most common form is the "J"
pouch, but there also are the "S," the "H" and the
"W" pouches. The pouch is sewn or stapled to the anus. Pouch surgery
is complex and has a relatively high risk of complications. Because of this a
temporary ileostomy usually is needed, with it being closed three months after
the pouch has healed.
Ileocolectomy
Surgical removal of a section of the terminal ileum and colon lying close to
the ileum (the lowermost part of the small intestine)
Ileorectal anastomosis
The surgical connection of the ileum and the rectum
Ileostomy
The surgical creation of an opening between the surface of the skin and the
ileum, the lowermost section of the small intestine
Ileum
The lower three fifths of the small intestine from the jejunum to the
ileocecal valve
Immune system
The body’s natural defense system against infection or disease
Immunotherapy
Treatment to stimulate or restore the ability of the immune system to
fight infection and disease; also called biological therapy
Incontinence (bowel)
Loss of bowel control
Inflammation
One of the body’s defense mechanisms, inflammation results in increased
blood flow in response to infection and certain chronic conditions. Symptoms of
inflammation include redness, swelling, pain and heat.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Diseases that cause inflammation of the bowel. IBD includes Crohn's disease
and ulcerative colitis.
IV
See intravenous.
Intravenous
Within a vein or veins; medications may be given intravenously through a
small tube, IV (or catheter)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS, also called spastic colon)
A condition in which the colon muscle contracts more readily and causes
abdominal pain and cramps, excess gas, bloating and a change in bowel habits
that alternate between diarrhea and constipation
Jejunum
The second portion of the small intestine extending from the duodenum to the
ileum
Laparoscopy or laparoscopic surgery
A method of surgery that is much less invasive than traditional surgery.
Tiny incisions are made to create a passageway for a special instrument called a
laparoscope. This thin telescopelike instrument with a miniature video camera
and light source is used to transmit images to a video monitor. The surgeon
watches the video screen while performing the procedure with small instruments
that pass through small tubes placed in the incisions.
Large intestine
The digestive organ made up of the ascending (right) colon, the transverse
(across) colon, the descending (left) colon and the sigmoid (end) colon. The
appendix is also part of the large intestine. The large intestine receives the
liquid contents from the small intestine and absorbs the water and electrolytes
from this liquid to form feces, or waste.
Laser surgery
Destruction of tissue using a small, powerful, highly focused beam of light
Laxative
Medications that increase the action of the intestines or stimulate the
addition of water to the stool to increase its bulk and ease its passage.
Laxatives often are prescribed to treat constipation.
Leukocytes
White blood cells that protect the body against infections and other
diseases
Leukopenia
A decreased white blood cell count
Local therapy
Treatment that affects cells in the tumor and the area close to it
Localized cancer
Cancer that hasn’t spread to other parts of the body
Lymph
Clear fluid that travels through the lymphatic system and carries cells that
help fight infection and disease
Lymphatic system
A circulatory system that includes an extensive network of lymph vessels and
lymph nodes. The lymphatic system helps coordinate the immune system’s
function to protect the body from foreign substances.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
A test that produces images of the body without the use of X-rays. MRI uses
a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce these images.
Malignant
Cancerous; can spread to other parts of the body
Mesentery
Membranous tissue that carries blood vessels and lymph glands, and attaches
various organs to the abdominal wall
Metastasize
To spread from one part of the body to another. When cancer cells
metastasize and cause secondary tumors, the cells in the secondary tumor are
like those in the original cancer.
Microsatellite instability
The mistakes in DNA. Microsatellite instability is where the length of small
sequences of DNA differ between tumor cells and normal cells; their appearance
is a clue to the presence of abnormal DNA repair.
Mismatch repair genes
The genes responsible for correcting errors in DNA when cells divide. In
hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), recent research has
discovered mutations in a variety of genes that are thought to be a part of the
DNA mismatch repair system, therefore predisposing families with HNPCC to the
development of cancer. The two most commonly mutated genes, known as hMLH1
and hMSH2, could account for up to 50% of HNPCC cases.
Mismatch repair
The process that takes place in the cells of almost every living organism.
DNA mismatch repair is when DNA replicates in the nucleus of a cell by DNA
exonuclease enzymes separating the two strands of the double helix, making each
a template upon which a new double helix is built. DNA polymerase then adds new
nitrogenous bases to each strand: adenine binds to thymine; guanine binds to
cytosine. At the completion of the replication, one DNA double helix has become
two double helices. If a mistake or mismatch occurs, there is a set of at least
6 genes that produce proteins whose job is to recognize a mistake or mismatch,
cut it out, and replace it with the correct sequence of DNA. If one of these
genes is mutated (or changed) and doesn't make a protein that works, the whole
system fails.
Muscle transposition
A procedure in which gluteal (buttock) or gracilis (inner thigh) muscles are
used to encircle and strengthen the anal canal. When the inner thigh muscle is
used, pacemaker-like electrodes are implanted into the grafted muscle to train
it to remain contracted. When the buttock muscle is used, the lower portion of
this muscle is freed from the tailbone region and wrapped around the anus to
construct a new anus. The buttock muscle transposition does not require the use
of a pacemaker.
Mutation
A change in a gene with the potential of being transmitted to offspring
Nausea
A queasy feeling that leads to stomach distress, a distaste for food and an
urge to vomit. Nausea is not a disease, but a symptom of many disorders. It can
be brought on by systemic illnesses such as influenza, medications, pain and
inner ear disease.
Nitrates
Substances found in some foods, especially meats, prepared by drying,
smoking, salting or pickling. Nitrates are thought to be cancer-causing
substances that contribute to the development of certain types of cancer.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
A class of drugs that is effective in reducing inflammation and pain without
steroids. Examples of these drugs include aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen.
Occult blood
Blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. This type of
bleeding is detected by performing a laboratory test on a stool sample.
Oncologist, medical
A physician who specializes in the medical treatment of cancer. Medical
oncologists have a thorough knowledge of how cancers behave and grow. This
knowledge is used to calculate your risk of recurrence as well as the possible
need for and benefits of additional or adjuvant therapy (such as chemotherapy,
hormonal therapy or bone marrow transplantation). Your medical oncologist
generally manages your overall medical care and monitors your general health
during your course of treatment. He or she checks your progress frequently,
reviews your lab and X-ray results and coordinates your medical care before and
after your course of treatment.
Oncologist, radiation
A physician trained in cancer treatment using radiation therapy
Oncologist, surgical
A doctor who performs biopsies and other surgical procedures to diagnose and
treat cancer
Ostomy
A general term meaning an opening, especially one made by surgery; see also
colostomy
Pathology
The study of the characteristics, causes and effects of a disease
Pathologist
An expert who specializes in analyzing tissue samples (removed during a
biopsy) under a microscope to detect the cellular makeup of the tumor, whether
the cancer is localized or has the potential to spread and how quickly it is
growing. Pathologists can detect subtle differences in cancer cells that help
your surgeon and oncologist confirm the diagnosis.
PCA
Abbreviation for Patient Controlled Analgesia, a method of administering
pain medication directly into a patient's circulatory system through a vein
(usually in the arm or hand) or directly to the nerves that perceive lower
abdominal pain (epidural area). Delivery of pain medicine is activated by the
patient pushing a request button.
Peristalsis
The means by which food or waste is propelled through the gastrointestinal
tract in a series of muscular contractions.
Platelets
Substance in blood that helps prevent bleeding by causing blood clots to
form at the site of an injury
Polyps (colon)
Small growths on the inner colon lining. Certain types of polyps, such as
adenomas, may develop into cancer. Other types of polyps, such as hyperplastic
polyps, have no risk of developing into cancer. Colorectal screening is
important to detect polyps and early cancer.
Proctocolectomy
The surgical removal of the entire colon that may be performed in one or
more stages. Proctocolectomy cures colon cancer and removes all risk of
developing the disease in the colon or rectum.
Proctoscopy
A procedure in which a 10-inch straight metal scope is used to examine the
rectum. The patient is normally on his or her side for this exam, and a fleet
enema is usually given before the procedure.
Proctosigmoidectomy
An operation that removes a diseased section of the rectum and sigmoid colon
Prognosis
The probable outcome or course of a disease; the chance of recovery
Pulse oximetry
A photoelectric device that measures the percent of oxygenation in the blood
using a clip on the finger; also measures the heart rate.
Radiation
A form of cancer treatment that uses high levels of radiation to kill
cancer cells or keep them from growing and dividing — while minimizing damage
to healthy cells
Radiation, internal
When small amounts of radioactive materials are introduced into the
body to help prevent, diagnose and treat disease. Brachytherapy is the treatment
of cancer with a radiation source that is applied in or near the tumor.
Radiation, external
The use of radiation delivered by special equipment that directs the
radiation from outside the body through normal tissue to reach the cancer. This
type of radiation to treat cancer often is given in short sessions over a period
of time.
Radiation oncologist
A doctor who specializes in using radiation to treat cancer
Radiation therapist
A professional who helps place you in the correct treatment position and
interprets X-ray studies
Radiation technologist
A professional who checks the radiation dosage to make it as safe as
possible
Radiology
A branch of medicine that uses radioactive substances and visual devices to
diagnose and treat a wide variety of diseases
Radiologist
A physician who reads and interprets X-rays and other radiographic images
Rectal bleeding
A symptom of digestive problems rather than a disease. Bleeding can occur as
a result of a number of different conditions, many of which are not
life-threatening. Most causes of bleeding are related to conditions that can be
cured or controlled, such as hemorrhoids. However, rectal bleeding may be an
early sign of rectal cancer so it is important to locate the source of the
bleeding.
Rectal prolapse
Dropping down of the rectum outside the anus
Rectopexy
Surgical placement of internal sutures (stitches) to secure the rectum in
its proper position
Rectum
An 8-inch chamber connected to the large intestine that receives solid waste
(feces) from the descending colon to be expelled from the body. The rectum
connects the colon to the anus. It is the rectum's job to receive stool from the
colon, to let the person know that there is stool to be evacuated and to hold
the stool until evacuation happens.
Recurrence
The return of a disease after a period of remission
Remission
Disappearance of the signs and symptoms of cancer. A remission can be
temporary or permanent.
Risk factor
A factor that increases a person’s chance of developing a disease or
predisposes a person to a certain condition
Sentinal lymph node
The first lymph node to which a tumor drains, making it the first place
where cancer is likely to spread
Sigmoidoscopy
See flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Small intestine
The portion of the digestive tract that first receives food from the
stomach. It is divided into three sections: the duodenum, the jejunum and the
ileum. As food travels through the small intestine it is further broken down by
enzymes, and nutrients from the food are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Sphincteroplasty
Also called rectal sphincter repair, is the most common procedure used to
correct a defect in the anal sphincter muscles. There are two anal muscles that
control bowel movements, similar to two round doughnuts, one inside of the
other. If a defect exists in the complete circle of muscle, the problem can be
corrected with this surgery. During the sphincteroplasty, the two ends of the
muscle are cut and overlapped onto one another, then sewn in place. This
procedure then restores the complete circle of muscle.
Stage
The extent of the cancer. The stage of colon cancer depends on the size of
the cancer tumor and whether it has spread from its original site to other parts
of the body.
Stoma
An artificial opening of the intestine to outside the abdominal wall
Systemic therapy
Treatment that reaches and affects cells all over the body
Thrombosis
A blood clot
Total abdominal colectomy
Surgical removal of the entire colon
Trocar
A sharp, pointed instrument used to make a puncture incision in the
abdominal wall; used for placement of cannulas
Tumor
A spontaneous new growth of tissue forming an abnormal mass; also known as a
neoplasm
Ulcerative colitis
A disease that causes inflammation and sores, called ulcers, in the top
layers of the lining of the large intestine. The inflammation usually occurs in
the rectum and lower part of the colon, but it may affect the entire colon.
Ulcerative colitis rarely affects the small intestine except for the lower
section, called the ileum.
Ultrasound
A test used to diagnose a wide range of diseases and conditions in which
high-frequency sound waves, inaudible to the human ear, are transmitted through
body tissues. The echoes vary according to the tissue density. The echoes are
recorded and translated into video or photographic images that are displayed on
a monitor.
Vomiting
The forcible expulsion of the contents of the stomach through the mouth which
occurs with symptoms of nausea. Vomiting is not a disease but a symptom of many
disorders. Vomiting is also a side effect of some forms of chemotherapy.
X-ray
High-energy radiation used in low doses to diagnose diseases and used in
high doses to treat cancer
|
