Author: Glossary
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Buccal embrasure
The embrasure spreading toward the cheek between the molar and premolar teeth.
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Embolysis
The dissolution of an embolus, especially one due to a blood clot.
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Pulmonary embolus
An embolus in the pulmonary artery or one of its branches.
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Coronary embolus
An embolus in one of the coronary arteries. It may be a complication of arteriosclerosis and may cause angina pectoris.
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Uterine artery embolization
The injection of particles into the uterine artery to block its blood supply. Uterine artery embolization is used as an alternative to hysterectomy in the management of uterine fibroids and, occasionally, postpartum bleeding. Complications from the procedure include pelvic pain, cramping, fever, nausea, vomiting, or occasionally uterine injury that necessitates surgical removal of the uterus.…
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Arterial embolization
Embolotherapy; pathophysiologic migration of an embolus into an artery.
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Septic embolism
An embolism made up of purulent matter that arises from the site of an infection caused by a pyogenic (pus-forming) organism. It can result in the spread of infection to a distant site.
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Paradoxical embolism
An embolism arising from the venous circulation that enters the arterial circulation by crossing from the right side of the heart to the left side through a patent foramen ovale or septal defect. It may occasionally cause stroke in a patient with a deep venous thrombosis.
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Drug embolism
Obstruction of the circulation by injected drugs, debris, or talc, often resulting in pulmonary infarction.
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Amniotic fluid embolism
The entry of amniotic fluid through a tear in the placental membranes into the maternal circulation. This rare event may occur at any gestational age, but most commonly during labor, delivery or in the immediate postpartum period. The contents of the fluid (e.g., shed fetal cells, meconium, lanugo, vernix) may produce pulmonary or cerebral emboli.…