Definition

Relating to a medical procedure that is done through the skin.

Example

The doctor recommended a percutaneous procedure to treat the patient's condition.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new percutaneous treatment for arthritis?

Yeah, I read it can really help with pain management.

It sounds less invasive than surgery, which is a plus.

Definitely! I'm curious to see how effective it really is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Percutaneous → It is formed from "per-" (meaning through) and "cutaneus" (from Latin "cutis", meaning skin). The word describes a procedure that goes through the skin.

Memory Tip

Think of something that goes 'through' ('per-') the 'skin' ('cutis') — that's why percutaneous refers to procedures that penetrate the skin.

Visually Confused Words