Choledochotomy is a medical term that refers to a surgical procedure that involves making an incision into the common bile duct. The phonetic transcription for this term is /ˌkoʊliːdəˈkɒtəmi/, with stress on the second syllable. The word is spelled according to the rules of English spelling, with the "ch" representing the sound /k/, the "oe" representing the sound /i:/, and the "d" and "och" representing the sounds /d/ and /ɒ/. The suffix "-otomy" indicates a surgical procedure, while the prefix "chole-" refers to bile.
A choledochotomy refers to a surgical procedure in which an incision is made into the common bile duct, which is a tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. This procedure is typically performed to address conditions or diseases affecting the bile ducts, such as the presence of gallstones, tumors, or strictures.
During a choledochotomy, the patient is put under general anesthesia and positioned in a way that provides the surgeon with access to the abdomen. An incision is then made in the upper abdomen, and the common bile duct is carefully located. The surgeon then makes a precise incision into the bile duct, allowing for the removal of any obstructions or the necessary repairs to be made. After completing the necessary interventions, the surgeon may opt to insert a stent into the bile duct to ensure proper drainage and healing.
Choledochotomy is considered a complex and invasive surgical procedure that requires the expertise of a skilled surgeon. Complications can arise, including bleeding, infection, leakage of bile, damage to nearby organs, or the development of scar tissue. Therefore, close post-operative monitoring and appropriate care are essential for a successful recovery.
In summary, a choledochotomy involves making an incision in the common bile duct, facilitating the removal of obstructions or repair of conditions affecting the bile ducts. It is a surgical procedure performed to address conditions like gallstones, tumors, or strictures and requires skilled medical expertise.
Incision into the common bile-duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "choledochotomy" is derived from Greek roots. Here is the breakdown:
1. "Choledoch-" is derived from the Greek word "khole" (χολή), which means "bile" or "gall", and "dokhein" (δέχειν), meaning "to receive" or "to accept".
2. "-Otomy" is derived from the Greek word "tomē" (τομή), which means "incision" or "cutting".
Therefore, "choledochotomy" can be understood as a word meaning "incision of the common bile duct".