Definition of Elective surgery
Elective surgery: Surgery that is subject to choice (election). The choice may be made by the patient or doctor.
For example, the time when a surgical procedure is performed may be elective. The procedure is beneficial to the patient but does not need be done at a particular time.
As opposed to urgent or emergency surgery.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=14367
Last Editorial Review: 8/12/2000 10:24:00 AM
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