Cancer-Related Dictionary

A sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node or group of nodes where cancer cells are most likely to spread from a primary tumor. Doctors commonly examine the sentinel nodes through a procedure called a sentinel lymph node biopsy to determine if cancer has started to metastasize or spread.

A stem cell transplant, also known as a bone marrow transplant, is a medical procedure where damaged or diseased bone marrow is replaced by healthy stem cells. These cells can regenerate into new bone marrow that produces normal blood cells. This procedure may be necessary in treatment of certain cancers, blood disorders or immune deficiency syndromes.

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-surgical procedure that uses detailed imaging techniques and multiple streams of precise, high-energy radiation to treat tumors and other abnormalities in the brain, spine, lungs or other body parts, without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. It minimizes side effects and allows for a swift recovery.

A "Stoma" is a medical term referring to an artificially created opening in the body, often established during surgical procedures. It serves as a direct pathway for waste elimination from the body or breathing, mainly in cases where natural processes have been hindered due to health conditions. Typical types include colostomy, ileostomy, and tracheostomy.

"Surgery" refers to the medical field that uses operative techniques to investigate or treat physical conditions. It involves cutting, ablation, suturing or otherwise physically altering body tissues and organs, frequently performed to remove or repair damaged parts. Types of surgery can range from minor procedures to complex major surgeries. It often ventures into science, art, and technology.

Surgical staging is a procedure used to determine the extent of cancer spread within the body. It involves a surgeon examining tissues, organs, and sometimes lymph nodes during surgery to assess how far the cancer has progressed. This information helps doctors plan the most effective treatment strategy.

A thyroid lobectomy is a surgical procedure where one lobe (half) of the thyroid gland is removed. This is often done when there is a suspicious nodule or tumor, or for treating certain thyroid conditions.

Tissue microarrays are a laboratory technique used to analyze multiple tissue samples simultaneously on a single slide. This method allows researchers to study the expression of proteins or genes in various tissues efficiently, making it a valuable tool in cancer research and pathology.

Tomotherapy is a unique type of radiation therapy used in cancer treatment. It combines the precision of 3D imaging with rotational delivery of radiation, precisely targeting the tumor from all angles. This technique helps to minimize exposure to healthy tissue, thereby reducing side effects. Tomotherapy offers the advantage of adjusting doses to match a tumor’s size, shape and location.

Transoral robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses robotic systems to remove tumors or perform procedures in the mouth and throat through the mouth, without external incisions.

A tumor board is a group of medical experts from various specialties who collaborate to discuss and plan the best treatment approach for patients with complex cancer cases. This multidisciplinary team typically includes oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals.

An ultrasound-guided biopsy is a medical procedure where a doctor uses ultrasound imaging to guide a needle to a specific area of the body to collect a tissue sample for examination. This technique helps ensure accuracy and minimize damage to surrounding tissues.

A wedge resection is a surgical procedure where a small, wedge-shaped piece of tissue is removed from an organ, often used to treat lung conditions or diagnose lung cancer.