Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

A premature contraction of the heart that is independent of the normal rhythm of the heart and that arises in response to an impulse in some part of the heart other than the normal impulse from the sinoatrial (SA) node. The extrasystole is followed by a pause, as the heart electrical system “resets” itself and the contraction…

A hematoma (a collection of blood) outside the cranium (skull).

Outside the cranium, the bony dome that houses and protects the brain. As opposed to intracranial, inside the cranium.

Outside the body, in the anatomic sense. As in extracorporeal circulation, extracorporeal dialysis, and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. From extra- + corpus, meaning body.

A procedure that stabilizes and joins the ends of fractured (broken) bones by a splint or cast. External fixation is as opposed to internal fixation in which the ends of the fractured bone are joined by mechanical devices such as metal plates, pins, rods, wires or screws.

The process of straitening or the state of being strait. Extension of the hip and knee joints is necessary to stand up from the sitting position.

The second stage of labor, lasting from the full dilation of the cervix until the baby is completely out of the birth canal.

1. The original meaning: to transfer tissue from the body and place it in a culture medium for growth; and the tissue that is transferred. To remove a device that had been implanted.

A medication that helps bring up mucus and other material from the lungs, bronchi, and trachea. An example of an expectorant is guaifenesin, which promotes drainage of mucus from the lungs by thinning the mucus, and also lubricates the irritated respiratory tract.

Originating from outside the organism. Insulin taken by a diabetic is exogenous insulin.