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During a microdiscectomy, some disk is removed. In most cases, bone must first be removed to expose the damaged disk. The part of the disk outer wall and soft center that presses on the nerve can then be removed. There is usually enough disk remaining to cushion the vertebrae.

Cubital tunnel syndrome is a set of symptoms that may occur if the ulnar nerve in your elbow gets pinched. This may happen if you bend or lean on your elbows often.

A flexible bronchoscopy is an exam of the airways of your lungs. A thin, flexible tube called a bronchoscope is used. Here's what you need to know about the test.

A pulmonary function test shows how well your lungs are working. A complete test has three parts. You may be given the full test or only certain parts. The full test is painless and can last 45 to 90 minutes.

Smoking damages your lungs and makes it harder to breathe. Read on for helpful tips and information on quitting.

Stress and anxiety can make breathing harder. When it's hard to breathe, it's natural to get anxious and start to panic. This makes you even more short of breath. This sequence is known as the dyspnea cycle--common among people with COPD. The good news is, you have the power to break the cycle.

Blood lost during surgery may need to be replaced. Donating your own blood ahead of time is sometimes best. Depositing your own blood before surgery is called autologous blood donation.

Most germs are spread through touch. Using these transmission-based precautions can prevent the spread of certain infections.

Hepatitis B and C are serious threats to healthcare providers. Always use these standard precautions to protect yourself.