"Hypodermoclysis" is a complex medical term used to describe the subcutaneous injection of fluids for therapeutic purposes. The word is spelled phonetically as /haɪ.pəʊ.dəˈmɔː.klɪ.sɪs/ with emphasis on the second syllable "pəʊ". "Hypo" means "under," "derm" refers to the skin, and "clysis" means "to wash out." Therefore, "hypodermoclysis" roughly translates to "washing out under the skin." This procedure is commonly used to treat dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and medication administration in elderly patients.
Hypodermoclysis is a medical procedure in which fluids are injected into the space just beneath the skin, known as the subcutaneous tissue. The word is derived from the Greek roots "hypo," meaning beneath, "derm," meaning skin, and "clysis," meaning infusion or injection. Also referred to as subcutaneous infusion or hypodermic hydration, hypodermoclysis is commonly used as an alternative to intravenous (IV) therapy when a patient's veins are difficult to access or when infusion into the bloodstream is not required.
During hypodermoclysis, a needle or catheter is inserted into the subcutaneous tissue, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or lower back. The fluid, which typically consists of a balanced electrolyte solution or a combination of fluids and medications, is then slowly infused into the tissues. The subcutaneous tissue acts as a reservoir for the fluids, allowing gradual absorption into the bloodstream over time.
This technique is often employed in elderly patients or those with frail veins, as it is generally less invasive and easier to perform compared to IV therapy. It can be used to maintain hydration, provide medications, or manage symptoms such as pain or nausea. Hypodermoclysis is considered a safe and effective method of fluid administration, with minimal risk of complications compared to IV therapy.
Overall, hypodermoclysis offers a valuable means of delivering fluids and medications to patients who cannot receive treatment through traditional intravenous routes.
The subcutaneous injection of a large quantity of saline solution.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hypodermoclysis" originates from Greek roots.
- "Hypo-" is a prefix in Greek meaning "under" or "below".
- "Derm(a)" is a Greek word that means "skin".
- "Clysis" is derived from the Greek word "klusis", which means "infusion" or "injection".
Thus, "hypodermoclysis" refers to a medical procedure where fluids are injected or infused below the skin. It is commonly used as a technique to administer fluids when intravenous access is unavailable or difficult to establish.