The word "canthectomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the canthus, a structure that connects the upper and lower eyelids. Its correct pronunciation is /kænθɛktəmi/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The first two letters "canth" are pronounced as /kænθ/, which represents the IPA phonetic symbols for the "k" sound, the "æ" sound as in "cat," the "n" sound, and the dental fricative "θ" sound. The last part, "ectomy," is pronounced as /ɛktəmi/ and means "removal."
Canthectomy is a medical procedure in which a surgical incision is made in the canthus, the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. This surgical intervention is typically performed to treat certain conditions or to access deeper tissues in order to address underlying problems.
During a canthectomy, a skilled surgeon uses specialized surgical instruments to carefully create an incision on either the outer or inner aspect of the canthus, depending on the specific case or desired outcome. This procedure allows for improved access to the structures within the eye or surrounding tissues, making it useful in various ophthalmic surgeries or reconstructive procedures.
Canthectomy is commonly employed to correct eyelid malpositions, such as ectropion or entropion, which are conditions characterized by the outward or inward turning of the eyelids, respectively. By modifying the position of the canthus, the surgeon is able to restore normal eyelid alignment and function, enhancing both the aesthetic appearance and the functionality of the eye.
In some cases, a canthectomy may also be employed as part of the surgical management of certain types of skin cancer, particularly those affecting the delicate tissues surrounding the eye. By removing a portion of the canthus, the surgeon can more effectively excise the cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Overall, canthectomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the canthus to address specific ophthalmic conditions or gain better access to tissues requiring treatment or reconstruction.
Excision of a canthus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "canthectomy" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "canthos" and "ektome".
- The Greek word "kanthos" (κανθός) refers to the outer or inner corner of the eye, specifically the angle formed by the upper and lower eyelids. It can also be used to describe the canthus, which is the region where the eyelids meet.
- The Greek word "ektome" (έκτομη) means "cutting out" or "excision". It is derived from the verb "ekteinō" (έκτείνω), which means "to cut off" or "to excise".