Bilateral lithotomy is a medical term referring to a surgical procedure to remove stones from the bladder or other urinary tract organs. The spelling of this word is based on the principles of phonetics, specifically the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The initial syllable is pronounced as "by-læt-ər-əl," with stress on the second syllable. "Lithotomy" is pronounced as "lɪˈθɒtəmi" with stress on the first syllable. Understanding IPA allows medical professionals to accurately communicate surgical procedures and conditions, ensuring clear and effective patient care.
Bilateral lithotomy refers to a medical procedure commonly performed in urology or gynecology. It involves the surgical removal of bladder stones or calculi from both sides of the patient's urinary tract simultaneously.
The procedure is typically carried out under general anesthesia, and the patient is placed in the lithotomy position, lying on their back with their legs elevated and flexed at the hips and knees. This position allows optimal access to the pelvic region for the surgeon.
During bilateral lithotomy, the urologist or gynecologist will use specialized instruments, such as forceps or lithotripters, to break down or extract bladder stones from both sides of the urethra or urinary bladder. The procedure may also involve the use of endoscopic instruments, video-assisted tools, or robotic assistance to enhance precision and visualization.
Bilateral lithotomy is a surgical technique commonly employed when patients have multiple stones or larger calculi present in their urinary tract. By addressing both sides simultaneously, it minimizes the need for multiple procedures or excessive manipulation of the patient's delicate organs.
Although bilateral lithotomy is generally a safe and effective procedure, it may carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding structures, or complications associated with general anesthesia. Therefore, it is important for patients to thoroughly discuss the benefits and potential risks with their healthcare provider before opting for this surgical intervention.
One in which the perineal incision is made transversely across the median raphe.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bilateral lithotomy" can be broken down into two parts for its etymology - "bilateral" and "lithotomy".
1. "Bilateral" comes from the Latin word "bi-" meaning "two", and "lateralis" meaning "side". It refers to something that involves or affects both sides or two corresponding parts.
2. "Lithotomy" has its roots in Greek. It comes from the combination of "lithos" meaning "stone" and "tomḗ" meaning "cutting". In medical terminology, "lithotomy" refers to a surgical procedure to remove stones, typically from the urinary tract or bladder.
Therefore, "bilateral lithotomy" describes a surgical procedure involving the cutting or removal of stones from both sides or corresponding parts of the body.