The word "lymphangiotomy" refers to the surgical procedure of incising a lymphatic vessel, and it is spelled as [lim-fan-jee-ot-uh-mee]. The first syllable, "lymph," contains the IPA phonetic symbol for the voiced labiodental fricative /v/ and the unstressed vowel /ɪ/. The second syllable, "an-gi-o," contains the IPA phonetic symbols for the voiced velar stop /g/ and the unstressed vowel /i/. The final syllables "to-my" contain the IPA phonetic symbols for the voiceless alveolar plosive /t/ and the unstressed vowel /i/.
Lymphangiotomy is a medical term that refers to a surgical procedure performed to create an incision or an opening in a lymphatic vessel. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that plays a crucial role in immune function and fluid balance within the body. Lymphangiotomy is typically carried out to treat certain medical conditions such as lymphedema, which involves the accumulation of lymph fluid and subsequent swelling in specific body parts, often the limbs.
During a lymphangiotomy, a trained surgeon makes a precise incision in a lymphatic vessel to release the trapped fluid and restore normal lymphatic flow. This procedure can be performed using various techniques, including traditional open surgery or more minimally invasive procedures such as endoscopic or laparoscopic approaches.
Lymphangiotomy aims to alleviate symptoms associated with lymphedema, such as discomfort, pain, or restricted movement. By creating an incision in the affected lymphatic vessel, it allows the accumulated lymph fluid to drain properly and move towards the lymph nodes where it can be filtered and reabsorbed by the body.
Post-surgical care for individuals undergoing lymphangiotomy may involve the use of compression garments, physiotherapy, or specialized exercises to further aid in the drainage of lymph fluid and prevent recurrence of swelling. In some cases, additional treatments such as lymphatic massage or medication may also be prescribed to support the healing process and manage lymphedema.
1. The anatomy of the lymphatics. 2. Incision of lymphatic vessels.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lymphangiotomy" is a medical term derived from Greek and Latin roots.
The term "lymph" comes from the Greek word "lympha", meaning "clear spring water" or "pure water". In medical context, lymph refers to the colorless fluid which circulates through the lymphatic system, playing a vital role in immune response.
The word "angi(o)-" in "lymphangiotomy" comes from the Greek word "angeion", meaning "vessel" or "duct". This root is commonly used in medical terminology related to blood or lymphatic vessels.
The suffix "-tomy" is derived from the Greek "-tomia", meaning "cutting" or "incision". It is often used to refer to surgical procedures involving the cutting or incision of a specific anatomical structure.