Fistulatome is a medical instrument used for the treatment of fistulas. The word is spelled as [fɪs.tʃu.læ.təʊm] in IPA phonetic transcription. The 'i' is pronounced as 'ɪ' and the 'u' as 'uː'. The 't' and 'l' sounds are articulated separately. The word ends with 'təʊm', where the 't' and 'əʊ' sounds form the syllable onset and the 'm' sound forms the coda. The spelling of the word is unique and can be difficult to pronounce for those who are not familiar with its etymology.
A fistulatome is a surgical instrument utilized during medical procedures to treat abnormal passages or tiny tunnels (called fistulas) that develop between two organs or between an organ and the body's surface. It is specifically designed to effectively incise and remove the fistula.
This specialized tool consists of a long, slender shaft with a cutting mechanism attached at the tip. The cutting mechanism typically includes a sharp, circular blade or a wire loop. The fistulatome is inserted into the fistula, and the surgeon applies controlled pressure to make an incision. The blade or loop effectively cuts through the tissue, enabling the surgeon to excise the entire fistula in order to promote healing and prevent complications.
Fistulatomes vary in size, shape, and design depending on the specific type of fistula being treated and the surgical technique employed. The instrument is typically made of high-quality, medical-grade steel to ensure durability, precision, and sterility.
The use of a fistulatome can significantly increase the success rate of fistula treatments by providing surgeons with a precise tool to remove the abnormal channel completely. By removing the fistula, the risk of infection, further damage, and recurrence can be minimized, improving the patient's overall health and well-being.
A long, thin bladed, probe-pointed knife for slitting up a fistula.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "fistulatome" is a compound word derived from two components: "fistula" and "tome".
1. "Fistula" originates from the Latin word "fistula", meaning "pipe" or "narrow tube". This Latin term refers to an abnormal passage or connection that develops between two body structures, such as organs or vessels, that are not typically connected.
2. "Tome" comes from the Greek word "tomḗ", meaning "cut" or "section". In medical terminology, "tome" is often used to refer to a surgical instrument specifically designed for cutting or making incisions.
Combining these two components, the term "fistulatome" suggests a surgical instrument used for incising or cutting during the treatment or removal of a fistula.