Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

phacoemulsification
A type of cataract surgery
in which the lens with the cataract is broken up by
ultrasound, irrigated, and suctioned out.
phage
See 
bacteriophage.
phagocyte
A cell that can engulf particles, such
as bacteria and other microorganisms or foreign
matter. The principal phagocytes include the neu-
trophils and monocytes, both of which are types of
white blood cells.
phalanges
The bones of the fingers and of the
toes. There are generally three phalanges (distal,
middle, proximal) for each digit except the thumbs
and large toes. The singular of phalanges is phalanx.
phalanx
See 
phalanges.
phantom limb syndrome
The perception of
sensations, often including pain, in an arm or leg
long after the limb has been amputated. Phantom
limb syndrome is relatively common in amputees,
especially in the early months and years after limb
loss.
phantom sensation
A phenomenon that involves
any of the senses that mimic the presence of sensory
abilities that are no longer available. Phantom sen-
sations are probably caused by abnormal firing of
nerve impulses, although the mechanism for these
sensations is not understood. For example, people
who have lost much of their vision often experience
visual phantoms. See also 
phantom limb syndrome;
phantom tooth pain.
phantom tooth pain
Persistent pain in an area
from which a tooth has been extracted. Phantom
tooth pain may last for months and can spread
beyond the extraction site to other areas of the
mouth.
phantom vision
A phenomenon that involves
seeing images after loss of eyesight.
pharmacist
A professional who fills prescrip-
tions and, in the case of a compounding pharmacist,
makes them. Pharmacists are very familiar with
medication ingredients, interactions, and cautions.