Medical procedure

Medical procedure is a course of action intended to achieve a result in the delivery of healthcare. A medical procedure with the intention of determining, measuring or diagnosing a patient condition or parameter is also called a medical test. Other common kinds of procedures are therapeutic (i.e., with the intention of treating, curing or restoring function or structure), and prophylactic (preventive), including the preemptive (disease-preventing) and palliative (to reduce pain and/or the process of the disease).

Types of medical procedures

Medical procedures can be classified into two main types: invasive and non-invasive procedures. Invasive procedures involve the introduction of instruments or hands into the body, while non-invasive procedures do not.

Invasive procedures

Invasive procedures can be further classified into surgical and non-surgical procedures. Surgical procedures involve a manual operation that involves cutting or puncturing the skin, while non-surgical procedures do not.

Non-invasive procedures

Non-invasive procedures include tests and treatments that do not involve any kind of penetration into the body. These can include things like imaging procedures, physical examination, and certain types of therapy.

Risks and benefits

Like any other action, medical procedures come with both risks and benefits. The potential benefits of a procedure must always be weighed against its potential risks.

See also

• List of medical procedures
• Medical test
• Surgery
• Therapy

References

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