Iridectomy is a medical procedure that involves removing a part of the iris, the colored part of the eye, to treat conditions like glaucoma or tumors. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as /ˈɪrɪd/, with the stress on the first vowel sound. The second syllable is pronounced as /ˈɛktəmi/, with the stress on the second-to-last syllable. The -ectomy suffix is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to surgical removal.
Iridectomy is a medical procedure that refers to the surgical removal of a portion of the iris, which is the colored part of the eye that surrounds the pupil. This procedure is typically performed to treat different eye conditions and restore proper functionality.
During an iridectomy, a small incision is made in the cornea or sclera, and a small piece of the iris is removed. This technique may be used in cases where there is an abnormal growth or tumor on the iris, or if there is a blockage of the eye's drainage system that causes a buildup of pressure, known as glaucoma. By removing a part of the iris, the surgeon aims to improve the outflow of fluid from the eye or eliminate the obstruction, reducing intraocular pressure and preventing further damage to the optic nerve.
Iridectomy may also be performed as a preventative measure in certain individuals who are at high risk of developing closed-angle glaucoma, a condition in which the iris blocks the drainage angle of the eye. By creating a hole in the iris, the risk of angle closure is minimized, preventing the onset of glaucoma.
Overall, iridectomy is an important surgical technique used to address various eye conditions and maintain proper eye health by removing a portion of the iris.
Excision of a portion of the iris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "iridectomy" is derived from Greek roots. "Iris" refers to the colored part of the eye, which is named after the Greek goddess Iris, associated with rainbows. The Greek term "ektomḗ" means "excision" or "removal". Therefore, "iridectomy" can be broken down as "iris" + "ektomḗ", representing the surgical removal of a portion of the iris.