The word "adenotome" is a medical term commonly used to describe a surgical instrument used for removing adenoids. Its spelling is derived from the two root words "adeno," pertaining to glands, and "tome," a tool for cutting. The phonetic transcription for "adenotome" is /ædənoʊtoʊm/, with stress placed on the second syllable. This word is often misspelled as "adenotommy" or "adenotomy," so it is important to be familiar with the correct spelling and pronunciation when discussing medical procedures involving adenoid removal.
An adenotome is a specialized medical instrument primarily used by otolaryngologists in the procedure of adenoidectomy. This surgical tool is typically employed to excise or remove the adenoids. The adenoids are part of the lymphoid tissue located at the back of the nasal cavity, specifically where the nasal cavity meets the throat. They are constituted of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells responsible for immune responses to infections. The procedure of adenoidectomy involves the partial or complete removal of the adenoids due to persistent infections, enlargement, or obstruction of the nasal airways.
The adenotome is specifically designed to aid in adenoidectomy by facilitating the safe and precise removal of the adenoid tissue. It typically consists of a long, thin, and sharp blade attached to a handle. The instrument is specifically designed to fit into the nasopharynx, allowing the surgeon to access the adenoids and effectively remove the excess tissue. The sharp blade of the adenotome is carefully passed behind the adenoids, and then using a cutting motion, the surgeon progressively eliminates the tissue.
The adenotome is an essential tool in otolaryngology, as it allows for the removal of problematic adenoids while minimizing the risk of injury to surrounding structures and ensuring patient safety. Its design and functionality enable surgeons to perform adenoidectomy efficiently and accurately, contributing to improved patient outcomes and relief from symptoms associated with adenoid issues.
An instrument for the removal of adenoids in the rhinopharynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "adenotome" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots:
1. "Adeno-" comes from the Greek word "aden", meaning "gland".
2. "-tome" comes from the Greek word "tomos", meaning "a cutting".
Therefore, "adenotome" literally means "a cutting device or instrument for glands". However, in a medical context, it specifically refers to a surgical instrument used for the removal of adenoids, which are glands located in the back of the throat.