Choledochectomy, pronounced /kɒliːdɒkɛktəmi/, is a medical term that refers to the surgical removal of the common bile duct. The spelling of this word may appear daunting due to its combination of Greek roots and Latin suffixes. However, the IPA phonetic transcription can help break down the pronunciation into smaller parts. The first syllable, "chole", comes from the Greek word for bile. The second syllable, "doch", comes from the Greek word for duct, while the suffix "-ectomy" is a Latin term that refers to surgical removal.
A choledochectomy refers to a surgical procedure in which the common bile duct (also known as the choledochus) is removed or partly excised. The common bile duct is a tube that carries bile, a digestive fluid produced in the liver, to the small intestine. This procedure is usually performed to treat certain medical conditions that affect the common bile duct, such as stones, inflammation, tumors, or other structural abnormalities.
During a choledochectomy, the surgeon typically makes an incision in the abdomen to gain access to the common bile duct. The affected portion of the duct is then carefully excised, and the remaining ends of the bile duct are sutured back together or, in some cases, connected to the small intestine to allow bile to continue to drain.
This surgical intervention can present potential risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, damage to nearby structures, bile leakage, or formation of scar tissue. However, the procedure is often performed successfully, providing relief to patients suffering from conditions affecting the common bile duct.
After a choledochectomy, patients may require a period of recovery, during which they are monitored for complications and may receive appropriate follow-up care. Depending on the individual case and underlying condition, additional treatments or therapies may be recommended to support the patient's recovery and overall well-being.
Surgical removal of a portion of the common bile-duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "choledochectomy" originates from the combination of three Greek roots:
1. "Chole" (χολή) refers to bile.
2. "Dochos" (δοχος) means duct or tube.
3. "Ektome" (εκτομή) signifies excision or removal.
When we combine these roots together, "choledochectomy" literally means the surgical excision or removal of the common bile duct.