Percutáneo

Percutáneo is a Spanish adjective derived from the Latin words "per" meaning through and "cutis" meaning skin. It describes a procedure or substance that is introduced or passes through the skin, typically without a large incision. In medical contexts, percutaneous procedures are common and involve using needles, catheters, or other instruments to access internal structures or deliver medication directly through the skin's surface.

Examples of percutaneous interventions include percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) to open blocked heart arteries, percutaneous biopsies to obtain tissue samples, and the administration of percutaneous injections for pain management or drug delivery. The advantage of percutaneous techniques is generally that they are less invasive than traditional open surgery, often leading to shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and a lower risk of complications.

The term can also be applied to substances designed for absorption through the skin, such as percutaneous medication patches. The efficacy and safety of percutaneous methods depend on the specific procedure and the skill of the medical professional performing it.