Colpohysterotomy is a medical term that refers to a surgical procedure in which an incision is made both in the vagina and in the uterus. The word is pronounced as kɑlpoʊhɪstɛrɒtəmi, with stress on the third syllable. The "colp-" prefix derives from the Greek word "kolpos," meaning "hollow or womb," while the "hystero-" prefix comes from "hystera," which means "uterus." The suffix "-tomy" denotes "cutting," thus completing the etymology of the word.
Colpohysterotomy is a medical procedure that involves making an incision in the vaginal wall and the uterus to access and treat certain conditions within the reproductive system. Specifically, it is a surgical intervention used to access the uterus or perform a cesarean section.
During a colpohysterotomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the vaginal wall and subsequently in the uterus to gain entry to the organ and perform the necessary procedures. This technique is particularly useful in cases where the traditional method of accessing the uterus through the abdominal wall (laparotomy) is not feasible or poses additional risks. Advantages of colpohysterotomy include limited intraperitoneal involvement, reduced blood loss, and a potentially shorter recovery time for the patient.
Colpohysterotomy is commonly employed in cases such as the removal of fibroids or polyps located in the uterus, treatment of certain types of abnormal uterine bleeding, or as a means of delivering a baby during a cesarean section. This procedure requires expertise in gynecological surgery and is typically performed under general anesthesia.
While generally safe and effective, colpohysterotomy carries potential risks including bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding organs, or scarring. It is important that patients fully understand the proposed procedure, associated risks, and have a detailed discussion with their healthcare provider to make informed decisions regarding their treatment options.
Incision into the uterus, as for the removal of a fibroma, through the vagina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "colpohysterotomy" is primarily composed of three Greek roots: "kolpos" (κόλπος), "hystera" (ὑστέρα), and "tomē" (τομή).
1. "Kolpos" (κόλπος) means "womb" or "vagina" in Greek.
2. "Hystera" (ὑστέρα) means "uterus" in Greek.
3. "Tomē" (τομή) means "an incision" or "cutting" in Greek.
When combining these roots, "colpohysterotomy" is formed, which refers to a surgical procedure involving an incision or cutting made in both the vagina and uterus.