In a medical context, "irrigation" refers to the process of cleaning or flushing a body cavity, wound, or medical instrument using a sterile solution, typically saline or another specially formulated medical fluid.

Medical irrigation is used to achieve several purposes:

Wound Cleaning: Medical professionals use irrigation to clean wounds and remove debris, dirt, bacteria, and foreign materials. It is a crucial step in wound care to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing.

Surgical Procedures: Surgeons and operating room staff use irrigation to clean and irrigate surgical sites during procedures, keeping them clear of contaminants.

Eye Irrigation: Ophthalmologists use sterile saline solution to irrigate the eye in cases of eye injuries or to flush out foreign objects.

Bladder and Urethral Irrigation: Medical irrigation is used to clean and irrigate the bladder and urethra, particularly in cases of urinary catheterization or to manage urinary tract infections.

Gastrointestinal Procedures: Gastroenterologists may use irrigation to clean and prepare the gastrointestinal tract during procedures like colonoscopy or endoscopy.

Dental Procedures: Dentists use irrigation to clean teeth and gums during dental cleanings and procedures.

Ear Irrigation: Medical professionals use ear irrigation to remove earwax or debris from the ear canal, often with warm water or saline.

In all medical irrigation procedures, it is essential to use sterile solutions and maintain aseptic techniques to prevent infection and complications. The choice of irrigation fluid and method varies depending on the specific medical procedure and the area of the body being irrigated. Medical irrigation is a critical aspect of patient care and medical procedures to ensure cleanliness, reduce the risk of infection, and support the healing process.