LITHOTRITOR Meaning and
Definition
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A lithotritor, also known as a lithotripter, is a medical device or instrument that is primarily used for the purpose of breaking or crushing kidney stones, gallstones, or any other calculi within the human body. It is specifically designed to perform a non-invasive procedure known as lithotripsy.
The lithotritor works by generating focused shockwaves or sonic waves that are directed towards the targeted region of the body where the stone or calculus is located. These shockwaves are emitted from a source, which could be an extracorporeal generator or an endoscopic probe, and are delivered to the desired area using various methods such as external devices or through catheters.
Once the shockwaves reach the stone, they create a series of mechanical forces that induce compression and shear stresses, causing the stone to break into smaller fragments. These smaller fragments can then be naturally passed out of the body through the urinary tract, thus avoiding the need for invasive surgical procedures.
Lithotritors have revolutionized the treatment of urinary calculi and gallstones. They provide a non-surgical alternative that significantly reduces patient discomfort, recovery time, and potential complications. Additionally, lithotripsy has proven to be highly effective, with a high success rate in breaking down and eliminating stones.
In summary, a lithotritor is a medical device used to perform lithotripsy, a non-invasive procedure that employs shockwaves or sonic waves to break down kidney stones and other calculi, offering a safe and effective option for stone removal.
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An instrument for destroying the stone in the bladder by crushing it.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for LITHOTRITOR
- kithotritor
- pithotritor
- oithotritor
- luthotritor
- ljthotritor
- lkthotritor
- lothotritor
- l9thotritor
- l8thotritor
- lirhotritor
- lifhotritor
- lighotritor
- liyhotritor
- li6hotritor
- li5hotritor
- litgotritor
- litbotritor
- litnotritor
- litjotritor
Etymology of LITHOTRITOR
The word "Lithotritor" is derived from Greek roots. The term consists of two main elements:
1. "Litho-" is derived from the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone".
2. "-tritor" is derived from the Greek word "tritein", meaning "to rub or crush".
Therefore, "Lithotritor" can be understood as a combination of "lithos" and "tritein", translating to "a device or person that crushes or breaks stones".
In the medical field, a lithotritor refers to a medical instrument used for breaking or pulverizing kidney stones or other hard calcified deposits within the body.
