What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
transcutaneous
Example
The patient received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy for pain management. [transcutaneous: adjective]
Example
The transcutaneous delivery of insulin is a less invasive alternative to injections. [transcutaneous: noun]
percutaneous
Example
The patient underwent percutaneous coronary intervention to treat a blocked artery. [percutaneous: adjective]
Example
The percutaneous biopsy revealed the presence of cancer cells. [percutaneous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Percutaneous is more commonly used than transcutaneous in medical contexts. Percutaneous is a widely used term in various medical specialties, while transcutaneous is more specific to certain procedures.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between transcutaneous and percutaneous?
Both words are formal and technical terms used in medical contexts.
