Dictionary

trans fat See trans fatty acid.

trans- Prefix meaning across, over, or beyond, as in transplant operation (an operation in which an organ from one person is grafted into another person).

tranquilizer In pharmacology, a drug that calms and relieves anxiety. The first tranquilizer, chlordiazepoxidehydrochloride (brand name: Librium), received FDA approval in 1960. Tranquilizers range in potency from mild to major, with increasing levels of drowsiness occurring as potency increases. They are prescribed for a wide variety of conditions but are used primarily to treat anxiety…

trait 1 In genetics, a genetically determined characteristic. 2 In medicine, a condition in the heterozygous state of a recessive disorder, as in sickle cell trait. 3 In psychology, a characteristic pattern of behavior.

traction, orthopedic The use of a system of weights and pulleys to gradually change the position of a bone. It may be used in cases of congenital defect or bone and joint injury to prevent scar tissue from building up in ways to limit movement and to prevent contractures in disorders such as cerebral palsy…

traction In medicine, a procedure for manually pulling a part of the body to a beneficial effect. See traction, orthopedic.

trachoma A chronic inflammatory disease of the eye and the leading cause of blindness. Trachoma is due to infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Transmission occurs mainly among children and from children to women caring for them. Key risk factors include inadequate supplies of water and low socioeconomic status. Trachoma affects millions of people worldwide,…

tracheostomy tube A small metal or plastic tube that keeps the stoma (opening) and the trachea in a tracheostomy open. Also known as a trach (pronounced “trake”) tube.

tracheostomy button A small plastic tube that is placed in the opening (stoma) of a tracheostomy to keep it open.

tracheostomy Surgery to create an opening (stoma) into the windpipe. The opening itself may also be called a tracheostomy. A tracheostomy may be made as an emergency measure if the airway is blocked.

tracheoesophageal puncture A small opening that is made by a surgeon between the esophagus and the trachea. A valve is inserted to keep food out of the trachea but allow air into the esophagus to permit tracheoesophageal speech.

tracheoesophageal fistula An abnormal communication between the trachea and esophagus. Abbreviated TEF. A TEF can be present at birth (congenital) or acquired. Congenital TEF is often associated with other birth defects. Most patients with congenital TEFs are diagnosed immediately following birth or during infancy. Congenital TEFs are often associated with life-threatening complications and require surgical…