The word "fulguration" is spelled as [fʌlɡjʊˈreɪʃən]. The first syllable of the word is pronounced as "ful" with a short "u" sound followed by a hard "g" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "gur" with a short "u" sound, followed by a "t" sound and ends with the "shun" sound. Fulguration is a medical term used to describe a process that destroys tissue using a high-frequency electric current. It is commonly used in various medical procedures, such as the treatment of bladder cancer.
Fulguration refers to the act of flashing or brightening suddenly. It can also pertain to the process of cauterizing or destroying tissue using a strong electric current.
In its broader sense, fulguration is a term used to describe any sudden and intense brightening, whether it occurs in nature or is artificially produced. For instance, in astronomy, fulguration is used to denote a rapid and intense increase in the brightness of a celestial object, such as a star or a galaxy. This could be due to a sudden burst of energy or an explosive event.
On a medical front, fulguration is a technique frequently employed in various procedures to treat or remove abnormal tissue growth or lesions. Specifically, it involves the use of a high-frequency electric current applied through a specialized instrument called a fulguration electrode. This electrode generates heat, which in turn destroys the targeted tissue. This technique is commonly utilized in surgeries like cystoscopy, where the removal of bladder tumors or polyps is necessary. By performing fulguration, the surgeon can effectively "burn" or cauterize these growths, minimizing bleeding or reducing the chances of recurrence.
Overall, whether referring to a sudden brightening or the use of electric current for therapeutic purposes, fulguration implies a powerful and instant transformation or destruction.
2. Treatment of malignant tumors by means of sparks from a d'Arsonval current.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The brightening of melted gold or silver.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "fulguration" originates from the Latin word "fulguratio", which is derived from the verb "fulgurare", meaning "to flash" or "to lighten". This Latin verb itself is derived from the noun "fulgur", which means "lightning" or "thunderbolt". Thus, the term "fulguration" retains its association with the intense flash or lightning-like bright light often observed during certain medical or natural processes.