What does the term instillation refer to in medical practice?

The term "instillation" in medical practice specifically refers to the placement of drops into body cavities, such as the eyes, ears, or nose. This method is commonly used for delivering medication directly into a localized area, which allows for targeted treatment. For instance, eye drops for glaucoma or nasal drops for congestion are examples of medication instillation.

In contrast, injecting medication into muscle is known as intramuscular injection, which involves using a needle and syringe to deliver medication deeper into muscle tissue. The process of inhaling medication pertains to inhalation therapies where the medication is vaporized or aerosolized and administered through the respiratory tract, such as with inhalers or nebulizers. Administering medication via an IV (intravenous) means delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream through a vein. Each of these methods has distinct applications and mechanisms, which sets them apart from the specific definition of instillation.