nonsurgically

Nonsurgically is an adverb used to describe methods or approaches that do not involve surgery. In medical contexts, it denotes management of a condition by nonoperative means such as medications, physical therapy, rehabilitation, bracing or casting, lifestyle modification, injections, observation, or other conservative measures. The term is often used to distinguish from surgical treatment, which requires operative procedures, anesthesia, and incisions.

Nonsurgical care can be appropriate for a range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, certain fractures, degenerative diseases, and many acute illnesses, particularly when symptoms can be controlled or the condition can improve without operation. However, the suitability and success of nonsurgical management depend on the diagnosis, severity, patient preferences, and response to initial therapy. If nonsurgical options fail to relieve symptoms or halt disease progression, escalation to surgical intervention may be considered.

In practice, nonsurgical does not imply a lack of all intervention; it typically indicates avoidance of operative procedures in favor of nonoperative strategies. The term is commonly used to describe treatment plans or patient care pathways, and is related to terms such as nonoperative care, conservative management, and, in some contexts, minimally invasive procedures. Overall, nonsurgical management emphasizes alternatives to surgery that aim to relieve symptoms, restore function, and improve quality of life.