Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

perineal
Pertaining to the perineum.
perineal prostatectomy
An operation to
remove the prostate gland through an incision made
between the scrotum and the anus.
perineum
The area between the anus and the
scrotum in the male and between the anus and the
vulva in the female. See also 
episiotomy.
periodontal
Having to do with the gums and
supporting structures of the teeth.
periodontal disease
A bacterial infection that
destroys the attachment fibers and supporting bones
that hold the teeth in the mouth. Left untreated,
periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. The main
cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a
sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on teeth.
periodontics
The branch of dentistry that is con-
cerned with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
diseases that affect the gums and supporting struc-
tures of the teeth.
periodontitis
Gum disease with inflammation of
the gums. See also 
periodontal disease.
perioperative
Literally, around (the time of)
surgery. More specifically, the period of time
extending from when the patient goes into the hos-
pital, clinic, or doctor’s office for surgery until the
time the patient is discharged home.
periosteal
Pertaining to the periosteum.
periosteoma
A benign tumor that arises from
the periosteum. Also known as periostoma.
periosteum
A dense membrane composed of
fibrous connective tissue that closely wraps all bone
except that of the articulating surfaces in joints,
which is covered by a synovial membrane.
periostitis
Inflammation of the periosteum.
periostoma
See 
periosteoma.
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periostoma
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peripheral
Situated away from the center or
being at or near the periphery, as opposed to cen-
tral. For example, peripheral vision is the type of
vision that allows a person to see objects that are
not in the center of his or her visual field.