Metrotomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical procedure of incising the uterus. The word is spelled with the prefix "metro-" meaning uterus and the suffix "-tomy" meaning surgical incision. The "e" in "metro-" is not pronounced, and the stress is on the second syllable "tro" as indicated by the IPA transcription /mɛˈtrɒtəmi/. The word can sometimes be misspelled as "metroctomy" or "metrotome," but the correct spelling follows the Greek roots that make up its parts.
Metrotomy is a medical procedure commonly referred to as an incision or surgical cut made into the uterus or womb. Derived from the combination of the Greek words "metra" meaning uterus and "tome" meaning incision, metrotomy involves making a carefully planned and controlled opening in the uterine wall for various purposes.
Metrotomy is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be conducted for both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons. In a diagnostic metrotomy, the surgeon carefully makes an incision in the uterus to access its internal structures, such as to investigate abnormal uterine bleeding, examine the presence of fibroids, or assess potential issues with pregnancy. Alternatively, in a therapeutic metrotomy, the procedure is performed to treat certain medical conditions or perform specific surgeries like the removal of fibroids, resection of endometrial polyps, or even surgical repair of the uterus after childbirth.
Metrotomy requires meticulous surgical skills and utmost care to prevent excessive bleeding and damage to adjacent structures such as blood vessels, intestines, or bladder. After the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures or staples, and the patient will be closely monitored to ensure proper healing and recovery.
It is important to note that metrotomy should only be performed by qualified and experienced medical professionals in a controlled surgical setting, adhering to appropriate safety and sterility protocols. The procedure carries the inherent risks associated with surgical interventions, and individual patient factors should be considered before determining its necessity.
The word "metrotomy" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "metros" (μήτρα), meaning "uterus", and "tome" (τομή), meaning "cutting" or "incision". When these two words are combined, "metrotomy" refers to the surgical procedure of making an incision or cutting into the uterus.