Posterior sclerotomy is a surgical treatment for certain eye conditions. It is spelled as [poʊˈstɪriər sklɪˈrɒtəmi] in IPA phonetic transcription. The word "posterior" refers to the back part of the eye while "sclerotomy" means an incision made in the sclera, the white outer coat of the eye. The pronunciation of this medical term includes the stressed syllables of "posterior" and "sclerotomy", and emphasis on the vowel sounds of "o" and "i". Accurate spelling and pronunciation of medical terms are crucial in clinical communication and patient care.
Posterior sclerotomy is a surgical procedure performed in ophthalmology to create an incision or opening in the posterior sclera, which is the tough outermost layer of the eyeball. This procedure is typically done to relieve pressure or drain fluid from the vitreous cavity or the space behind the retina.
The posterior sclera refers to the back part of the sclera, which is the fibrous, white, protective layer covering the eye. By making a small incision in this area, surgeons can gain access to the vitreous cavity or the area behind the retina.
Posterior sclerotomy is often performed in cases where there is excessive fluid buildup in the eye, known as hyphema, or when there is a need to remove vitreous hemorrhage, which is blood in the vitreous cavity. It may also be performed to release tractional forces on the retina in certain cases of retinal detachment.
The surgical procedure involves making a precise incision in the posterior sclera using specialized instruments. After the incision is made, the surgeon may insert various instruments such as a vitrectomy probe or drainage tubing to remove excess fluid or blood from the vitreous cavity or to release tension on the retina.
Posterior sclerotomy is considered a delicate and precise surgical technique, requiring extensive training and expertise in ophthalmic surgery. It is commonly performed in conjunction with other procedures such as vitrectomy or retinal detachment repair to optimize visual outcomes and restore the normal functioning of the eye.
Incision through the sclera into the vitreous humor.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "posterior sclerotomy" can be broken down into two parts: "posterior" and "sclerotomy".
The term "posterior" derives from the Latin word "posterior" which means "behind" or "rear". In the context of medical terminology, it refers to a position or location that is situated at the back of something.
"Sclerotomy" comes from the Greek word "scleros" meaning "hard" or "hardened", and the suffix "-tomy" which means "cutting" or "incision". In ophthalmology, a sclerotomy refers to a surgical procedure where an incision is made in the sclera, which is the white outer layer of the eyeball.
Combining these two terms, "posterior sclerotomy" refers to a surgical incision made in the back part of the sclera.