Lithotrite is a medical term used to refer to a surgical instrument designed to crush bladder stones. Its spelling can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. It is pronounced as /ˈlɪθə(ʊ)trʌɪt/. This means the first syllable is pronounced as "li-tho" with stressed vowel "i". The second syllable is pronounced as "tro" with short vowel "o", and the final syllable is pronounced as "t-rite" with the stressed vowel "i" and silent "e." Understanding these phonetics can aid in correctly pronouncing and spelling the word lithotrite.
The term "lithotrite" refers to a surgical instrument or device that is specifically designed to crush or break up calculi or stones within the urinary bladder or other parts of the urinary tract. It is also commonly referred to as a lithotripter. The name "lithotrite" is derived from the Greek words "lithos," meaning stone, and "tritrein," meaning to crush or grind.
Lithotrites are primarily used in the field of urology to treat conditions such as kidney stones and bladder stones. The procedure of lithotripsy involves the use of a lithotrite to locate and break down the stones into smaller, more manageable pieces. This can be achieved through mechanical means, such as using a probe to crush the stones, or through extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), where shock waves are directed at the stones externally to break them apart.
Lithotrites come in various sizes and designs, depending on the specific needs of the patient and the location of the stones. They often consist of a probe-like instrument with a mechanism for crushing or pulverizing the calculi. These instruments can be used in conjunction with other urological instruments, such as ureteroscopes or cystoscopes, to facilitate stone removal.
In conclusion, a lithotrite is a specialized device used in urology to crush or break up stones within the urinary tract. Its importance lies in the treatment of conditions like kidney stones, enhancing the efficiency of stone removal procedures, and improving patient outcomes.
Lithoclast, lithotriptor; an instrument used to crush a stone in the bladder or urethra.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The instr. for doing this.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Lithotrite" originated from Ancient Greek. It is a compound word consisting of "lithos" which means "stone" and "tritēs" which means "rubbing" or "crushing". Hence, "Lithotrite" translates to "stone crusher" or "stone grinder".