Scapulectomy is a medical term referring to the surgical removal of the scapula bone. The word is spelled with the prefix "scapulo-", which comes from the Latin word "scapula" (shoulder blade). The suffix "-ectomy" refers to the surgical removal of a body part. The phonetic transcription of scapulectomy is /skæpjʊˈlɛktəmi/. The stress is on the second syllable "pjʊ", and the letters "c" and "u" are pronounced as /k/ and /u/, respectively.
Scapulectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the scapula bone, also known as the shoulder blade, from the human body. The scapula is a triangular-shaped bone positioned at the back of the shoulder, connecting the humerus bone in the upper arm to the clavicle bone in the chest.
Scapulectomy is typically performed as a last resort treatment for individuals with severe conditions or injuries related to the scapula. It may be necessary in cases of bone tumors, where the scapula is affected by cancerous growth and needs to be excised to prevent further spread. Additionally, scapulectomy may be considered in situations of extensive trauma or irreparable damage to the scapula due to accidents, fractures, or infections.
The scapula plays a crucial role in the stability and movement of the shoulder joint, as it serves as an attachment point for various muscles and tendons. Therefore, scapulectomy is a complex procedure that requires careful consideration of factors such as maintaining shoulder functionality and preserving nearby nerves and blood vessels.
Following scapulectomy, patients may undergo rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the affected shoulder. The procedure can result in significant physical and functional changes, as the scapula plays a vital role in shoulder movements, arm control, and posture.
Removal of the scapula or a portion of it.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "scapulectomy" is derived from two root words: "scapula" and "ectomy".
The term "scapula" comes from the Late Latin word "scapula" which means "shoulder blade" or "shoulder". It can be traced back to the Classical Latin word "scapulae" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*kap-" meaning "to grasp" or "to hold". The scapula is a large triangular bone located on the back side of the shoulder.
The suffix "-ectomy" is derived from the Greek word "ektomḗ" which means "excision" or "removal". It is commonly used in medical terminology to denote surgical removal or excision of a specific body part.
Therefore, "scapulectomy" refers to the surgical procedure of removing or excising the scapula, or shoulder blade.