The word "hysterotome" refers to a surgical instrument used for performing a hysterotomy, the act of cutting into the uterus. The spelling is simply a combination of the words "hystero-" (meaning uterus) and "-tome" (meaning cutting instrument). It can be pronounced as /hɪˈstɛrətoʊm/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "y" in "hystero-" is pronounced as a long "i" sound and the "o" in "-tome" is pronounced as a long "o" sound.
A hysterotome is a surgical instrument used in gynecology for performing a procedure called hysterotomy. Derived from the Greek words "hystera" meaning uterus and "tome" meaning an instrument used for cutting, a hysterotome is specifically designed for incising or dissecting the uterus during a hysterotomy.
Typically, a hysterotomy is performed as a part of various gynecological procedures such as a cesarean section or the removal of uterine fibroids. The hysterotome is equipped with a sharp, thin blade that enables precise and controlled cutting of the uterine tissue. It is carefully manipulated by a skilled surgeon to make an incision in the uterus, allowing access to its contents or facilitating the execution of other necessary steps in the procedure.
Hysterotomes are commonly made of high-quality stainless steel to ensure durability, sterility, and easy maintenance. As a specialized instrument used during invasive gynecological surgeries, the hysterotome is typically employed in a sterile environment such as an operating room. The blade of the instrument should always be kept sharp and carefully sterilized prior to use to minimize the risk of infections or complications.
In summary, a hysterotome is a surgical instrument utilized in gynecological procedures such as a hysterotomy. It is designed to make precise incisions in the uterus using a thin, sharp blade, facilitating access to its contents or enabling other necessary steps in the surgical intervention.
An instrument for incising the cervix uteri.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hysterotome" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "hystera", meaning "womb" or "uterus", and "tomē", which means "cutting" or "incision". "Hysterotome" thus refers to a surgical instrument specifically designed for cutting or incising the uterus.