Hepatectomy (hep-ə-TEK-tə-mee) is the surgical removal of a part or entire liver. The word is derived from the Greek words 'hēpar' meaning liver and 'ektomē' meaning excision. The spelling of the word can be considered complex due to the combination of consonants in the middle, which can be difficult to pronounce for non-native speakers. The use of International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription can help individuals understand the correct pronunciation and spelling of the word more easily.
Hepatectomy is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the partial or complete removal of the liver. The word "hepatectomy" is derived from the combination of the Latin word "hepar," which means liver, and the suffix "-ectomy," which denotes the removal of an organ or tissue.
A hepatectomy is typically performed as a treatment option for various liver diseases, including liver cancer, liver tumors, liver abscesses, and certain forms of liver transplantation. The procedure may involve the removal of a specific lobe or segment of the liver (partial hepatectomy) or the complete removal of the entire liver (total hepatectomy). The extent of the hepatectomy depends on the underlying condition and the scope of the disease.
Hepatectomy is considered a major surgical procedure that requires anesthesia and is usually performed in a hospital setting by a specialized surgical team. The procedure involves making an incision in the abdomen to access the liver and carefully removing the affected portion while ensuring minimal damage to the surrounding healthy liver tissue. The remaining liver tissue has the ability to regenerate, which enables the liver to regain its functionality in the postoperative period.
Postoperatively, patients undergoing a hepatectomy may require close monitoring in intensive care units, as the procedure carries potential risks and complications, such as bleeding, infection, bile leakage, and liver failure. Rehabilitation and follow-up care are crucial for the successful recovery and restoration of liver function.
Surgical removal of part of the liver.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hepatectomy" is derived from Greek roots "hepar" meaning "liver" and "ektomē" meaning "excision" or "removal". So, "hepatectomy" literally means "surgical removal of the liver".