MYELOTOME Meaning and
Definition
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A myelotome is a medical device or surgical instrument specifically designed for the purpose of cutting or incising the spinal cord during a myelotomy procedure. A myelotomy is a surgical intervention that involves creating an incision into the spinal cord to gain access to its inner structures.
The term "myelotome" stems from the Greek words "myelo," referring to the spinal cord, and "tome," meaning to cut or incise. It is primarily utilized by neurosurgeons or spinal surgeons during delicate and intricate spinal surgeries or when exploring and treating certain spinal disorders.
A myelotome typically consists of a long, slender, and sharp blade or cutting edge, facilitating precise and controlled incisions within the spinal cord. The instrument is often equipped with a handle or grip, allowing the surgeon to firmly and securely hold it during the procedure. The size, shape, and design of myelotomes can vary depending on the intended use and the specific area of the spinal cord being targeted.
Using a myelotome requires exceptional skill and expertise due to the high risk involved in cutting the delicate spinal cord tissue. The procedure must be meticulously planned and executed, taking into consideration the patient's specific spinal condition and overall health. Furthermore, stringent monitoring during and after surgery is crucial to ensure appropriate healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Overall, myelotomes have proven to be invaluable tools in various spinal surgeries, allowing surgeons to access and treat specific spinal cord pathologies while minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.
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An instrument used in making serial sections of the spinal cord.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MYELOTOME
- nyelotome
- kyelotome
- jyelotome
- mtelotome
- mgelotome
- mhelotome
- muelotome
- m7elotome
- m6elotome
- mywlotome
- myslotome
- mydlotome
- myrlotome
- my4lotome
- my3lotome
- myekotome
- myepotome
- myeootome
- myelitome
- myelktome
Etymology of MYELOTOME
The word "myelotome" is derived from two Greek roots: "myelos" and "tomḗ".
The Greek word "myelos" (μυελός) refers to "marrow", specifically the soft tissue found inside bones. In a medical context, it can also refer to the spinal cord.
The second root, "tomḗ" (τομή), means "to cut" or "to slice". It is derived from the Greek verb "temnein" (τέμνειν), which has the same meaning.
Therefore, when combined, "myelotome" refers to a surgical instrument or device used for cutting into the spinal cord or bone marrow.
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