adjective
invasive
Involving entry into the body with instruments or surgery.
The doctor recommends an invasive test to collect a tissue sample.
Etymology
The Latin ancestor means to enter or attack. A medical procedure is invasive when instruments enter the body rather than operating only on its exterior.
More examples
- Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions.
- An ultrasound may help you avoid a more invasive test.
- Before the invasive procedure, the nurse explains the risks.
Forms
invasive
invasiveness noun — Degree of bodily entry during medical procedures.
Similar words
- surgical
- Specifically involves surgery, rather than other methods of bodily entry.