The word "carpectomy" is spelled as /kɑrˈpɛktəmi/, representing each sound in the word. The first sound is the "k" sound, followed by the "a" sound. The "r" sound is then pronounced, followed by the "p" sound. The second "e" sound is pronounced as a schwa, followed by the "k" sound. The next sound is the "t" sound, followed by the "ə" sound. Finally, the "m" and "i" sounds are pronounced. Carpectomy is a surgical procedure for removing some or all of the bones that form the wrist.
Carpectomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical removal of a carpal bone or bones from the wrist. The wrist is composed of eight small bones known as carpal bones, which are arranged in two rows. A carpectomy is typically performed when a carpal bone is severely damaged or diseased, most commonly due to conditions such as arthritis, trauma, or tumors.
During the carpectomy procedure, a surgeon will make an incision in the wrist area to gain access to the carpal bones. The specific bone or bones to be removed are carefully identified and extracted. The surgeon may also take measures to stabilize the remaining bones and maintain proper alignment and function of the wrist joint.
Carpectomy may be performed as a standalone surgery, but it is frequently combined with other procedures such as wrist fusion or joint replacement to optimize the overall stability and functionality of the wrist. Following the surgery, a period of physical therapy and rehabilitation is usually necessary to restore wrist strength and mobility.
The aim of carpectomy is generally to reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance the patient's quality of life. While the removal of carpal bones from the wrist can result in some loss of flexibility, the procedure is often successful in alleviating pain and restoring wrist function to a great extent.
Exsection of a portion or all of the carpus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "carpectomy" is derived from two Greek roots: "karpós" meaning "wrist" and "ektomḗ" meaning "excision" or "removal". Combining these roots, "carpectomy" refers to the surgical excision or removal of a part or the whole of the wrist.