Positron emission tomography. A scan in which a person is injected with a small amount of radioactive glucose solution. Cancerous areas show up brighter in the scan because they take up more of the glucose….

A type of surgery for selected small rectal cancers. The surgeon operates through the anus to remove the cancer without cutting into the abdomen.

The surgical removal of a growth using a small, spoon-shaped instrument with a sharp edge called a curette.

Also called lymph glands. Small, beanshaped structures that form part of the lymphatic system. They collect and destroy bacteria and viruses.

A surgical technique that involves several small cuts instead of one large cut on the abdomen. Also called keyhole or laparoscopic surgery….

A type of thoracic surgery performed using a small video camera which is inserted, along with the operating instruments, through separate holes in the chest wall, known as ports….

A small dark spot on the skin that arises from skin cells called melanocytes. Also called a mole….

A small passage that carries air into the outer parts of the lungs.

A small medical appliance installed beneath the skin. A tube called a catheter connects the port to a vein so that fluids can be passed into the body. Also called an infusaport….

The small cartilage flap in your throat that prevents food or fluid from going down the wrong way.