postoperative

adjective

post·​op·​er·​a·​tive ˌpōst-ˈä-p(ə-)rə-tiv How to pronounce postoperative (audio)
-pə-ˌrā-
1
: following a surgical operation
postoperative care
2
: having recently undergone a surgical operation
a postoperative patient
postoperatively adverb

Examples of postoperative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Bacterial infections, such as wounds, urinary tract infections, some cuts and scrapes, pneumonia, dental infections, and postoperative infections, can all lead to sepsis, as can viruses such as COVID-19. Fran Kritz, Verywell Health, 18 Sep. 2024 Some evidence even suggests aesthetics and environment may contribute to faster postoperative recovery. Kristine Gill, Fortune, 3 Sep. 2024 Pain management and wound healing: Pain management is crucial to postoperative care. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 23 July 2024 In attempts to lessen possible postoperative problems, including infection and hemorrhaging, Dr. Dohlman made treatment adjustments, including adding special antibiotics and protective soft contact lenses. Brian Murphy, Washington Post, 16 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for postoperative 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'postoperative.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of postoperative was in 1872

Dictionary Entries Near postoperative

Cite this Entry

“Postoperative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/postoperative. Accessed 4 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

postoperative

adjective
post·​op·​er·​a·​tive ˈpōst-ˈäp-(ə-)rət-iv How to pronounce postoperative (audio)
1
: relating to, occurring in, or being the period following a surgical operation
postoperative care
2
: having recently undergone a surgical operation
a postoperative patient
postoperatively adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on postoperative

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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