Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Analgesia team
In Situ in Medical Term
The medical term in situ is a Latin phrase that means “in the original place” or “in the original position”. In medicine, it can also mean “localized”. It’s used in cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as in surgery.
For example, in carcinoma in situ, abnormal cells are only found in the place where they first formed and have not spread. These cells are not cancerous, but they can sometimes become cancerous and spread to nearby areas. Doctors may also refer to them as precancerous cells.
Also, a catheter in situ refers to a catheter that has been inserted and is currently in place within the body.