The word histotome, which means a surgical instrument used for dissecting tissues, is spelled phonetically as /hɪstəˌtoʊm/. The first syllable is pronounced like "hiss" with a "t" sound added, followed by "tuh" for the second syllable, and "tohm" for the last syllable. The "e" at the end indicates that the stress is on the second syllable. The spelling reflects the word's Greek origin, where "histos" means tissue and "tome" means to cut.
A histotome is a specialized surgical instrument used in medical procedures such as histological dissections and autopsies. It is primarily employed to cut through and separate tissues during these procedures with precision and accuracy. The histotome is specifically designed to achieve clean and meticulous cuts, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding tissues and facilitating the study of the tissue samples.
The instrument typically consists of a long, slender handle, which provides stability and control during the cutting process. At the tip of the handle, there is a sharp cutting edge, often in the form of a blade or a fine wire loop. The material of the cutting edge is typically stainless steel or diamond, which ensures durability, sharpness, and resistance to corrosion.
Histotomes are commonly used in medical research laboratories, pathology centers, and hospitals, where they are utilized by trained medical professionals, such as pathologists and anatomical technicians. The histotome's precise cutting action allows for the preparation of thin tissue sections that can be examined under a microscope for diagnostic purposes or further analysis.
With its specialized design and precision cutting capabilities, the histotome plays a crucial role in obtaining accurate tissue specimens for histopathological examinations and investigations, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.
Microtome.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "histotome" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "hístēmi" (meaning "to set upright" or "to place") and "tómos" (meaning "a cutting" or "a slice"). When combined, they form "histotome", which can be translated as "a device or instrument for cutting or dissecting tissues". This term is commonly used in medical and anatomical contexts, particularly in histology and pathological studies.