Sigmoidectomy is a medical procedure to remove a portion of the sigmoid colon. The spelling of this word can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription: /sɪɡmɔɪˈdɛktəmi/. The first syllable, "sigmo," contains a hard "g" sound followed by a "m" sound. The second syllable, "id," is pronounced with a long "i" sound followed by a soft "d" sound. The final syllable, "ectomy," is pronounced with a long "e" and emphasizes the "t" and "m" sounds together. This spelling reflects the origin of the word from Greek and Latin languages.
Sigmoidectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon is the S-shaped section of the large intestine located in the lower abdomen, connecting the descending colon to the rectum. The aim of a sigmoidectomy is to treat or alleviate certain conditions affecting the sigmoid colon.
This surgical intervention is typically recommended for patients with conditions such as diverticulitis, a condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) in the intestinal wall. Other indications for sigmoidectomy may include colorectal cancer, large polyps, or bowel obstruction arising from scar tissue or abnormal twisting of the sigmoid colon (volvulus).
Sigmoidectomy can be performed using different surgical techniques, including open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approaches. During the procedure, the affected portion of the sigmoid colon is resected, and the healthy ends are typically joined together using sutures or staples. In some cases, a temporary colostomy may be created to divert the stool away from the surgical site to allow for healing. A colostomy involves the creation of an opening in the abdominal wall through which the colon is brought to the surface, allowing waste to be collected in a pouch.
Recovery after sigmoidectomy varies depending on the individual and the specific procedure performed. It may involve a hospital stay, medication for pain management, and a gradual return to a normal diet and daily activities.
Excision of the sigmoid flexure.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sigmoidectomy" is derived from two main elements: "sigmoid" and "ectomy".
1. Sigmoid: The term "sigmoid" comes from the Greek word "sigma" (Σ), which is the name of the eighteenth letter in the Greek alphabet. The sigmoid colon, or sigmoid, is the "S"-shaped portion of the large intestine, connecting the descending colon to the rectum. The name "sigmoid" refers to its shape resembling the Greek letter Sigma (Σ).
2. -ectomy: The suffix "-ectomy" is derived from the Greek word "ektomē" (ἐκτομή), which means "excision" or "removal". It is typically used to denote the surgical removal or resection of a specific organ or part of the body.
When combined, "sigmoidectomy" refers to the surgical removal or resection of the sigmoid colon.