SEPTECTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Septectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing a part or the entirety of the nasal septum, which is the thin piece of cartilage in the nose that separates the nostrils. The septum plays an essential role in the structure and function of the nose, helping to maintain airflow and balance. However, in certain cases, the nasal septum can become deviated or damaged, leading to chronic breathing difficulties, recurrent infections, nosebleeds, or other related issues.
The procedure, septectomy, involves removing a portion of the septum that is causing the problems. It is typically performed under general anesthesia, with an incision made inside the nostril to access the septum. The surgeon carefully excises the unwanted or deviated portion of the septum, aiming to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible. The incision is then closed with dissolvable sutures or self-adhesive strips.
Septectomy is commonly used when less invasive interventions, such as medications or nasal sprays, are ineffective in alleviating the symptoms associated with a deviated septum. The surgery is performed by otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat specialists) or rhinoplasty surgeons who have expertise in nasal anatomy and reconstruction.
Recovery from a septectomy usually involves swelling, congestion, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications and nasal rinses. It is often recommended to avoid strenuous activities and to maintain good nasal hygiene during the healing period. While complications are generally rare, they can include infection, bleeding, or changes in nasal shape or function. Close follow-up with the surgeon is therefore essential to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal outcomes.
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Operative removal of the whole or a part of a septum specifically of the septum narium.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SEPTECTOMY
- aeptectomy
- zeptectomy
- xeptectomy
- deptectomy
- eeptectomy
- weptectomy
- swptectomy
- ssptectomy
- sdptectomy
- srptectomy
- s4ptectomy
- s3ptectomy
- seotectomy
- seltectomy
- se-tectomy
- se0tectomy
- seprectomy
- sepfectomy
- sepgectomy
- sepyectomy
Etymology of SEPTECTOMY
The word "septectomy" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "septum" and "ectomy".
"Septum" originates from the Latin word "saeptum", which means "enclosure" or "dividing wall". In anatomy, it specifically refers to a partition or dividing structure.
The suffix "-ectomy" comes from the Greek word "ektomē", meaning "excision" or "removal". It is commonly used to indicate a surgical removal or cutting out of a specific body part or tissue.
Therefore, "septectomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves the removal or excision of a septum. This term is commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in procedures involving the removal of a nasal septum to treat certain medical conditions.
