The word "prostatectomy" is a medical term used to describe the surgical removal of the prostate gland. It is spelled as /prɒˈsteɪ.tɛk.tə.mi/ in IPA phonetic transcription, which indicates that the word is composed of several phonetic elements. The stress falls on the second syllable, and the word ends with the suffix "-ectomy," indicating surgical removal. The prefix "prostat-" refers specifically to the prostate gland, which is located near the bladder in males. Overall, the spelling reflects the specialized nature of medical terminology and the importance of precise communication in healthcare.
Prostatectomy is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the prostate gland, a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra in males. The prostate gland is an essential part of the male reproductive system, producing seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm during ejaculation.
Prostatectomy is most commonly performed as a treatment for prostate cancer. However, it can also be conducted for non-cancerous reasons such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) that causes urinary difficulties. The surgical procedure can be carried out through various techniques, including open surgery or minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery.
During a prostatectomy, the surgeon carefully removes the prostate gland, taking care not to damage surrounding structures like nerves and blood vessels to maintain urinary and sexual functioning, if possible. The specific technique used depends on factors such as the patient's age, overall health, the size of the prostate, and the extent of cancer, if present.
After a prostatectomy, patients may experience temporary side effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. However, these can often be managed with time and appropriate treatments, including pelvic floor exercises and medication. Regular follow-ups and post-operative care are vital to monitor and optimize recovery.
In conclusion, prostatectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the prostate gland, primarily used as a treatment for prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate. It aims to eradicate cancer cells, relieve urinary symptoms, or improve overall prostate health, with potential side effects that can be managed with proper care.
Removal of a part or all of the prostate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "prostatectomy" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "prostate" and "ektomḗ".
"Prostate" (προστάτης) literally means "one standing before" or "guardian". In Greek, it referred to a person who stands guard or protects. In medicine, "prostate" refers to the gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra in males, which contributes to the production of semen.
"Ektomḗ" (ἔκτομη) means "excision" or "cutting out". It is derived from the verb "ektemnein", which means "to cut out" or "to remove".
Combining these two roots results in "prostatectomy", meaning "the surgical removal of the prostate gland".