The word "osteotomy" is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping bone. It is pronounced /ɒstiˈɒtəmi/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "osteo" is from the Greek word "osteon" meaning bone, pronounced /ɒstiən/. The second syllable is "tomy" which comes from the Greek word "tomia" meaning cutting, pronounced /ˈtɒmiə/. Hence, the spelling of "osteotomy" is a combination of the two words with the appropriate phonetic sounds.
Osteotomy is a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping a bone. This procedure is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon to correct deformities or abnormalities in bones. Osteotomy is often used as a treatment option for conditions such as arthritis, malalignment, or fractures that have not properly healed.
During an osteotomy, the surgeon carefully cuts the bone using a specialized tool, such as a saw or chisel. The bone is then repositioned in a more desirable alignment before being secured in place with plates, screws, or other fixation devices. The goal of the procedure is to improve the function and alignment of the bone, thereby reducing pain, increasing joint stability, and restoring normal movement.
Osteotomy is commonly performed on weight-bearing bones, such as the knee, hip, or ankle, to correct misalignments that can lead to joint deterioration or dysfunction. The surgical technique can also be used to lengthen or shorten bones, correct rotational deformities, or realign the bone for better weight distribution.
Recovery from an osteotomy may involve a period of immobilization, physical therapy, and pain management. The success of the procedure depends on various factors, including the individual's overall health, age, and adherence to post-operative instructions. Osteotomy can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from bone deformities or joint problems, allowing them to regain normal function and alleviate pain.
Cutting a bone, usually by means of a saw or chisel, for the removal of a sequestrum, the correction of knock-knee or other deformity, or for any purpose whatever. Osteotomy for the correction of knock-knee or other deformity may be cuneiform, i.e., the removal of a wedge from the convex side of the curve; or linear, cutting through the shaft or articular extremity of the bone by a straight incision.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "osteotomy" can be broken down into two parts: "osteo" and "tomy".
"Osteo" is derived from the Greek word "ostéon", meaning bone. It is often used as a prefix to indicate a relationship or involvement with bones.
The second part, "tomy", comes from the Greek word "tomḗ", which means a cutting or incision. This root is widely used in medical terminology to signify a surgical procedure involving cutting or incision.
Therefore, the word "osteotomy" literally means the cutting or incision of bone and is commonly used to refer to a surgical procedure that involves the deliberate incision or cutting of a bone.