A
Anaesthetist
Administers General anaesthesia for the purpose of a surgical / medical / diagnostic procedure.
Anterior Apicectomy
A procedure performed on a front (anterior) tooth to remove an abscess in the bone at the tip of the root. The surgeon cuts away the gum, drills through the bone until the hollow area containing the abscess around the tip of the tooth is reached. This area is then cleaned out and closed up again. It can of course also be done on a posterior (back) tooth.
Abdominoplasty
Repair of relaxed or stretched abdominal muscles and is also known as a "Tummy Tuck". Generally done for cosmetic reasons
Angiography
The x-ray visualization of the internal anatomy of the arteries of the body, e.g. coronaries, after the introduction of intravascular radio-opaque contrast medium.
Angioplasty
Per Cutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty (PCTA) A method of opening a blocked artery generally due to plaque, which is commonly caused by high cholesterol. The plaque in the arteries is compressed by means of a balloon catheter inserted into the blockage and then inflated. A stent (an expandable wire like tube) may also be inserted into this area in order to maintain the opening.
Anaesthesiology
Branch of medical science dealing with Anaesthetics
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B
Biannual
Twice a year.
Biennial
A two-year period.
Bilateral
Both sides, i.e. left and right.
Blepharoplasty
Excision of excess skin "hoods' of the eyelids.
Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF)
An association representing healthcare funders.
Bovine Blood (Hemopure)
A blood product derived from cattle blood that does not require cross matching, as it is totally compatible.
Breast Augmentation
Enlargement of the size of the breast, usually by the insertion of a prosthesis and is generally deemed to be cosmetic.
Breast Reconstruction
Reconstruction of a breast, e.g. following a mastectomy.
Breast Reduction
Reducing the size of the breast by surgically removing breast tissue, and is generally considered to be cosmetic.
Biokinetics
Treatment of various conditions by means of exercise programmes - such practitioners are usually attached to a gym and formulate programmes for diverse needs, which could be medical or elective e.g. general fitness cardiac, obesity etc
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C
Cardiology
The study of the heart and its actions and diseases
CAT Scans (Computerised Axial Tomography)
See C.T. Scans.
Conscious Sedation
Also referred to as conscious analgo-sedation. A term used to describe a procedure which is used as an alternative to a general anaesthetic, where the patient is aware of what goes on around them, is able to breathe on their own, and also to open and close their mouth and eyes, etc. but will be unaware of pain. In essence, it means having the benefits of a general anaesthetic without being asleep and without a lot of the dangers associated with a full anaesthetic. It can in fact be done safely in practitioner's rooms providing a qualified anaesthetist or anaesthesiologist administers the sedation, and the rooms are properly equipped.
Contra Lateral
The opposite side of a pair (i.e. contra lateral breast).
Corneal Banding
Special rings are placed in the eye to correct the shape of the eye to improve refraction.
Corneal Banding for Kerataconus
Corneal rings are implanted into the eye to improve refraction in a disease known as kerataconus. Not yet scientifically proven to be successful.
Corneal Transplants
Replacing the diseased cornea in the eye by a cornea obtained from the local eye bank or by cornea imported from overseas
CPAP Machines (Nasal)
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure : A mild pressure generator, which delivers a controlled flow of air at a constant pressure throughout the respiratory cycle during the night, for the treatment of sleep apnea. This is achieved by the patient placing a mask over the nose at night, which allows unobstructed breathing.
CT Scans (Computerised Tomography)
These are x-rays, which are shown in a series of slices of the area being investigated. (It can be likened to a loaf of bread being sliced, and the view shown would be like the slice lying flat.)
Cephalometric Tracing
A tracing is done from a specific x-ray called a cephalogram. This is an x-ray taken from the side of the head and neck and shows the dentist certain relationships between the teeth and jaw in a patient. This is of tremendous value in the planning of orthodontic treatment. In fact, this treatment cannot be planned without this x-ray and the tracing.
Clinical Psychologist
Treats psychological conditions by means of counseling therapy.
Clinical Technologist
Technicians who operate highly technical machinery required in certain medical or surgical procedures e.g. dialysis machines for patients in renal failure and heart lung machines used during surgery.
Clinical Pathologist
Investigates specimens of body fluids and tissue samples and reports to the referring practitioner on the findings.
Cardiologist
Treats medical conditions relating to the heart.
Chiropractor
Treats spinal and joint conditions by means of manipulation. They sometimes have x-ray facilities.
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D
Dermatology
Branch of medical science dealing with the skin, its structure, functions and diseases.
Dialysis
The artificial purification of the blood when the function of the kidneys has ceased. It may be Acute, which is for a short period during a crisis situation when organ failure occurs and is performed on a daily basis. The patient may recover completely; or it may become Chronic, in which case it will be necessary for life, unless the patient receives a transplant.
Dialysis may be performed in different ways:
Haemodialysis (HD)
The patient is connected to a machine, which is fitted with a disposable artificial kidney for the purpose of removing the toxins from the blood, which would have been done by the patient's own healthy kidneys. These toxins would have been excreted via the urine on an ongoing basis. The patient's blood is diverted to the dialysis machine and returned by means of two needles, which are inserted into a specially created fistula between the artery and vein in the patient's arm. This fistula is kept in place for as long as the patient requires haemodialysis. This dialysis process is generally done for a period of 4 hours, 3 times per week.
Peritoneal Dialysis (PD), which may be either:
o Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)
This method is sometimes called the "bag method". The patient has a Tenckhoff catheter inserted in the peritoneal cavity of the abdomen. This remains there for as long as the patient is on peritoneal dialysis. A bag of special fluid, Dianeal, is emptied by the patient into their abdomen and is retained there for a period of 8 hours. After this, it is drained and replaced by a new bag of fluid. This process is usually carried out every 8 hours on a permanent basis.
o Intermittent Peritoneal Dialysis (IPD)
The patient has a Tenckhoff catheter inserted in the peritoneal cavity of the abdomen, and this remains there for a long as the patient is on peritoneal dialysis. This is different from the CAPD method in that instead of replacing a bag of fluid every 8 hours, the catheter is connected to a machine at home and the patient is dialysed all night every night, leaving them free during the day. This is a very convenient method of dialysis, but more expensive than normal PD.
Dermatologist
Medical practitioner specialising in treating diseases of the skin (integumentary system).
Dietician
Treats conditions that can be assisted by correct diet e.g. Obesity, diabetics and high cholesterol.
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E
Ear, nose and throat/ Otorhinolaryngology
Specialising in ear, nose and larynx and their diseases.
Ectropion
Eversion of lower eyelid. Turning out or falling away of the lower eyelid from the eyeball exposing the conjunctival membrane, generally due to the aging process or stretching of the lower eyelid due to pressure of an eye prosthesis.
Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT)
Also known as "shock therapy". The induction of a brief convulsion by passing an electric current through the brain for the treatment of affective disorders.
Endoscope
An illuminated optical instrument for the visualization of the inside of an organ or cavity of the body. Once inserted, the "camera" transmits the view onto a "monitor" or screen for the surgeon to view.
Endoscopies
The visualization of the interior of organs or cavities of the body by means of an endoscope.
Epicanthal Folds
A vertical fold of skin over the angle of the inner angle of the eye. It is normal in oriental people, and present in some infants with Down's Syndrome.
Erythropoietin (EPO)
A hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells to increase the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood.
Endodontics
Treatment of the nerve canals in the roots of the teeth. These canals are cleaned, shaped and filled.
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F
Frenectomy-Labial
Cutting of the little piece of "skin" between the lip and the middle of the upper or lower teeth. This is done to facilitate the moving together of the middle teeth where there is a gap caused by this little muscle actually growing in between the teeth. It is seldom necessary before the age of 12 years because a lot of these "gaps" disappear naturally once all the permanent teeth start moving into place.
Frenectomy-Lingual
The surgical release of the frenum, which is attached to the bottom of the tongue and the base of the mouth. (It can bee seen when the tongue is lifted up.) If there is a heavy attachment, it could lead to speech problems.
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G
General practice GP's
General Medical Practitioners. Branch of medical science that does not limit its practice to a speciality.
Gastroenterology
Specialising in the disorders of the stomach, intestines, oesephagus, liver and gallbladder.
Gynaecology and Obstetrics
Specialising in midwifery and diseases of women.
Gaucher's Disease
A rare familial disorder of fat metabolism caused by an enzyme deficiency.
Gender Realignment
Sex change surgery.
Gynaecomastia
Enlarged male breasts
Genioplasty
Surgery to move the chin forward or backward, and is generally cosmetic.
General Surgeon
Treats medical conditions by means of surgery e.g. appendectomy.
Gastroenterologist
Treats and performs surgical procedures relating to medical conditions of the stomach, bowl and intestines.
General Practitioner
Medical practitioner who treats most conditions at a general and not specialised level.
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H
Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
The regulatory and registration body of the doctors, dentists and other health professionals. Registration for all these practicing professionals is compulsory, and failure to comply is an offense. (Previously known as the South African Medical and Dental Council.)
Hirsutism
Excessive hair growth in unusual areas of the body, e.g. facial hair in women.
Hydroxyapetite eye Implant (coral eye)
A round "ball" of specially prepared coral is implanted into the socket after the eye has been removed. Being porous it allows the tissue and blood vessels to grow into it. At a later stage, an artificial eye disc is attached to the implant. This procedure will allow movement of the artificial eye.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
The administration of 100% oxygen at greater than normal pressure in a specially designed air tight chamber for specific accepted conditions such as "Bends" in divers and anaerobic infections such as Gas Gangrene.
Hyperopia
Far sightedness.
Homeopath
Practitioner utilising natural remedies rather than drugs - no surgery. Some practitioners are medically trained and combine both forms of training.
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K
Keloids
Excessive growth of skin after an injury, wound, operation or piercing of ears, leaving a thick rope-like scar or growth.
Kerataconus
A disease of the eye, in which the cornea is shaped like a cone.
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L
Laser Assisted Uvulo-Palato-Pharyngo-Plasty (LAUP)
Excision of the excessive soft tissue of the uvula and pharynx by means of laser to correct snoring and sleep apnoea.
Lingual Orthodontics
Placement of orthodontic braces on the inside of teeth for cosmetic reasons.
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M
Mastectomy
Removal of a breast, usually for cancer.
MUGA Scan
A scan that determines the efficiency of the heart output. This is done by injecting a tracer and the ejection fraction and wall motion abnormality is then assessed. Indication for use: when it is technically too difficult to perform an echo scan, i.e. obese patient, severe COPD, or too large a space between the chest wall and the heart.
Myopia
Short sightedness.
Malocclusion
The incorrect alignment of the upper and lower teeth. This is very common and does not necessarily need to be treated.
Medical Oncologist
Specializes in cancer treatment.
Maxillo Facial Surgeon
Treats conditions of the face and jaw conservatively or surgically.
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N
Neonatology
Study of the newborn. Subspeciality to obstetrics, paediatrics and foetal biology.
Neurology
Specialising in diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system
Neurosurgery
Surgery of the nervous system
Nursing services
These practitioners operate outside the hospital situation, providing care at home on a daily or a per service basis, thus saving the expense of keeping a patient hospitalised. Midwives fall into this category of practitioners.
Nuclear Medicine
An advanced radiology diagnostic tool, using radionuclides
Neurosurgeon
Treats diseases of or injuries to the nervous system by means of surgery.
Neurologist
Treats diseases of the nervous system medically rather than surgically.
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O
Oncology
Study of neoplasms - benign or malignant tumours
Ophthalmology
Specialising in the structure, functions and diseases of the eye
Orthopaedics
Branch of medicine concerning the functions of the skeletal systems - bones, joints, muscles
Orthoptics
A specific programme of eye exercises, by specially trained practitioners, to assist in the correction of squints and other ocular (eye) muscle disorders.
Osteoporosis
The decalcification and thinning of bone.
Otoplasty
Surgical correction of protruding ears, generally for cosmetic reasons, e.g. bat ears.
Orthodontics
Diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion and irregularities of the teeth. (See malocclusion.)
Orthognathic Surgery
Surgery of the jaws to align the upper and lower jaws correctly in order to make them fit together in an ideal position. It is an extensive procedure, usually preceded by orthodontic treatment and always done in a hospital under GA by Maxillo-Facial Surgeons. The jaw, upper and or lower is physically cut loose and moved into a different, predetermined position. It is then fixed with plates and screws.
Orthopantomograph
Also referred to as a pan or panorex. An x-ray showing the whole jaw on one x-ray plate. It is taken by an x-ray machine that moves from one side of the head to the other, in a half circle while the patient sits quite still.
Osseo Integrated Implants
A titanium implant, which is placed in a cavity, drilled into the jawbone and is left for a number of months, to allow the bone to grow onto the implant and fix it into the jaw. The gum is then opened by means of a small cut, and a fixture is screwed into the implant. A crown is then attached to this fixture or abutment. This then replaces the missing tooth. The alternative would be a bridge or denture. A number of implants may be inserted in order to fit a complete set of false teeth. (This is done in phases and is extremely costly.)
Ophthalmologist
Treats eye disorders medically or surgically.
Orthopaedic surgeon
Treats diseases of or injuries to the musculo-skeletal system (muscles and bones).
Otorhinolaryncologist
Treats diseases of the Ear, Nose and Throat medically and surgically.
Orthodontist
Practitioner who specialises in treating malocclusions of the jaw (crooked teeth).
Occupational Therapist
Therapy given to patients with congenital conditions, traumatic injuries to educate movement and co-ordination etc.
Optometrist
Practitioner who measures visual acuity and prescribes spectacles or contact lenses to correct the defect.
Orthoptics
Treatment of eye conditions by means of exercises e.g. squint.
Orthopaedic Services
Those practitioners qualified to measure , make and fit orthopaedic appliances e.g. corsets, braces etc.
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P
Paediatric surgery
Surgery specialising in children
Paediatrics
Branch of medicine dealing with the development, care and diseases of children
Pathology
The interpretation and diagnosis of changes caused by diseases in tissues.
Plastic and reconstructive surgery
Branch of surgery concerned with the repair or restoration of lost, injured or deformed parts of the body.
Psychiatry
Branch of medicine that deals with mental, emotional behavioral disorders.
Psychiatry - Child
Branch of medicine that deals with mental, emotional behavioral disorders in children.
Pulmonology
Specialising in disease of the lungs.
Phakic Implant
Additional specific lens, which is implanted into the eye over the natural lens. Used for severe refractive errors not correctable by excimer laser.
Photodynamic Therapy for:
Macular Degeneration:
o Specific laser treatment of the eyes after the injection of a substance called Visudyne:
o Only appropriate for wet macular degeneration and only limits the progression of the condition. It does not cure it.
Rodent Ulcers:
o Specific laser treatment for rodent ulcers on the face after the application of a substance to the affected area of tissue.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET Scans)
A scan using a radioactive substance to demonstrate the metabolic activity of various body structures.
Presbyopia
The inability of the eye to focus sharply on near objects.
Presbyopia Surgery, i.e. Scleral Bands / Rings
Rings are inserted into the eyes to adjust the shape of the eye, which then improves vision.
Ptosis
Mechanical drooping of the eyelids causing obstruction of vision.
Ptosis Operation
Correction of mechanical drooping eyelids causing obstruction of vision
Para Orthodontic
Surgical procedures associated with orthodontic treatment, e.g. exposure of teeth to place brackets, fenectomy, etc.
Periodontics
Treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth, namely the gingival (gums) and alveolar bone. (The bone in which the tooth is planted.)
Prosthodontics
Pertains to the construction of artificial appliances that replace missing teeth or restore parts of the face.
Periodontist
Treats diseases of the gums conservatively or by means of surgery.
Prosthodontist
Specialist in the making of dental or facial prosthetics
Physiotherapist
Treats physical conditions by means of exercise, heat etc. - usually muscular. They are not permitted to dispense medication.
Podiatrist
Treats conditions of the feet e.g. corns, ingrown toenails etc. They do limited surgery.
Pharmacotherapist
A qualified Pharmacist with an additional qualification permitting him to provide primary health services e.g. blood pressure monitoring, pregnancy tests, care of simple wounds etc.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
Performs plastic and reconstructive surgery
Physical medicine
Treats medical conditions by means of exercises, manipulation etc, similar to a Physiotherapist.
Paediatric Cardiologist
Treats heart conditions in children.
Paediatrician
Treats diseases in children from birth to the age of 16 years.
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R
Radiology
X-Rays and radioactive substances and its use for diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Rheumatology
Rheumatic conditions - diseases that cause pain in muscles, joints and fibrous tissues
Refractive Surgery
Surgery performed on the eye to replace the use of glasses or contact lenses.
Refractive surgery, i.e. Lasik & PRK
Surgery by means of an excimer laser to improve vision, which could also be corrected by means of contact lenses or spectacles.
Rhinoplasty
Surgical correction of the nose, generally cosmetic but may have a functional component.
Radiologist
Practitioner, who reads, interprets and reports his findings on x-rays.
Radiographer
A technologist who specializes in the use of radiological equipment.
Radiotherapist
Treats cancer by means of radiation therapy and chemotherapy
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S
Surgery
Treatment of diseases, injury by means of operations
Scleral Bands or Rings
These are bands or rings that are inserted into the ageing eye to correct presbiopia.
Sclerotherapy
The treatment of varicose veins by means of:
1. an injection of a substance which causes an irritation and fibrosis of the lumen of the dilated vessel.
2. Candella Laser Therapy which has the same end result.
Sleep Apnea
Proven periods of the cessation of breathing during the patient's sleep cycle. This may cause many daytime complications due to the lack of a proper sleep pattern. Overweight, smoking, hypnotics and the consumption of alcohol in the evening can contribute to this condition.
South African Medical Association (SAMA)
A professional association for medical practitioners. Membership of this body is not compulsory. Previously known as MASA.
SAMA Tariff
The codes, medical descriptions and unit values are designed by SAMA. They also allocate a list of clinical unit values. These are referred to as private rates or "contracted out fees" as this tariff is higher than the BHF benchmark tariff and is generally not paid by medical schemes.
Stealth Station
Used for Stereotactic surgery in conjunction with CT or MRI imaging in cranial, spinal and ENT procedures.
Stents
Tubular prostheses that can be introduced into blood vessels, the neck of bladder or any other tubular area that needs to be assisted in remaining open (by supporting the walls).
Stereotactic Radio-Therapy
A specialised radiological technique for locating and irradiating deep seated lesions of the brain.
Sub-Acute Facility
Also known as a step-down facility. This is a facility that conforms to the regulations R158, laid down by the Department of Health for a nursing unit. These criteria are similar to those of a hospital but without all the high tech. areas, e.g. theatres, I.C.U.'s, H.C. Units, X-Ray Departments, casualty units, pharmacies, laboratories, etc. They also have a lower nurse to patient ratio, i.e. 4 nursing hours per patient per day. This allows a cost-effective level of care to be provided.
Subcutaneous Mastectomy
Removal of the breast tissue, leaving the skin, nipple and areola intact. Generally a prosthesis is inserted to restore appearance.
South African Dental Association (SADA)
A professional association for dental practitioners. The SADA rates as set by this Association are also referred to as private fees or "contracted out" fees. This tariff is higher than the BHF Benchmark Tariff. Membership of this association is not compulsory. (Previously known as DASA.)
Social Worker
Auxiliaries trained in the treatment of social problems
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T
Thoracic surgery
Surgery relating to the thorax or chest.
Thoracic Surgeon
Treats medical conditions by means of surgery - usually heart and lungs.
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U
Urology
Specialists in the urinary tract of male and female and the genital organs of the male.
Uvulo-Palato-Pharyngo-Plasty (UPPP)
Excision of the excessive soft tissue of the uvula and pharynx to correct snoring and sleep apnoea.
Urologist
Treats conditions of the male and female urinary tract medically or surgically - also male sterilisation.
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V
Vascular surgery
Branch of surgery concerned with the repair of various veins including varicose veins.
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