Arytenoidectomy is a surgical procedure, which involves the removal of the cartilage on each side of the larynx. The word is derived from two Greek words, "arytenoides" meaning "pyramid-shaped" and "ektomē" meaning "excision". The IPA phonetic transcription of "arytenoidectomy" is /æɹɪtəˌnɔɪdɛktəmi/, which shows that the word is pronounced with a stress on the fourth syllable and the "t" and "d" sounds are pronounced between vowels. It is essential to learn the correct spelling of medical terms to ensure efficient communication in healthcare settings.
Arytenoidectomy is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of the arytenoid cartilage located in the larynx, which is also known as the voice box. The larynx plays a crucial role in speech production, as it contains the vocal cords and helps control the flow of air during breathing and phonation.
During an arytenoidectomy, the patient is typically placed under general anesthesia to ensure a painless and comfortable experience. The surgeon makes an incision in the neck in order to access the larynx and then carefully removes the arytenoid cartilage. This procedure is often performed to treat certain conditions such as vocal cord paralysis, chronic laryngitis, or laryngeal cancer.
The removal of the arytenoid cartilage may result in changes to the patient's voice, as it directly impacts the mobility and tension of the vocal cords. This alteration can affect the pitch, volume, and quality of the voice, making it necessary for patients to undergo speech therapy post-surgery to regain or adapt their vocal abilities.
As with any surgical procedure, arytenoidectomy carries potential risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, difficulty swallowing, or changes in voice quality that may be permanent. Therefore, it is essential for patients to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the surgery, as well as explore alternative treatment options.
Excision of an arytenoid cartilage.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "arytenoidectomy" is derived from two main parts:
1. "Arytenoid": The term "arytenoid" comes from the combination of two Greek words, "arytenes" meaning "ladle" or "spatula", and "eidos" meaning "form" or "shape". These Greek words refer to the shape of a cartilage in the larynx (voice box) known as the arytenoid cartilage.
2. "-ectomy": This suffix is of Greek origin as well, derived from the word "ektomē", meaning "excision" or "removal".
Therefore, "arytenoidectomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves the excision or removal of the arytenoid cartilage in the larynx.