Pronunciation: [sˈɪɡmɔ͡ɪdˌə͡ʊpksi] (IPA) 
The word "sigmoidopexy" is spelled with the prefix "sigmoido" and the suffix "pexy". The prefix "sigmoido" refers to the sigmoid colon, which is the S-shaped portion of the large intestine. The suffix "pexy" means to fix or secure, often through surgical means. Together, "sigmoidopexy" refers to surgical fixation of the sigmoid colon. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /sɪɡˌmɔɪdoʊˈpɛksi/.
Sigmoidopexy refers to a surgical procedure performed to anchor or fixate the sigmoid colon to the abdominal wall. The sigmoid colon is a part of the large intestine, located between the descending colon and the sigmoid flexure. This procedure is commonly done to treat or prevent the occurrence of sigmoid volvulus, a condition characterized by the twisting or rotating of the sigmoid colon, which can cause bowel obstruction and interruption of normal blood flow.
During sigmoidopexy, the sigmoid colon is carefully repositioned and attached to the abdominal wall using sutures or mesh material. This fixation helps to prevent the future occurrence of sigmoid volvulus by stabilizing the sigmoid colon in its proper anatomical position and preventing excessive twisting. The procedure can be performed through open surgery or laparoscopically, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's preference.
Sigmoidopexy is considered a therapeutic treatment for managing or correcting sigmoid volvulus rather than a preventive measure for the general population. It may be recommended for individuals who have experienced recurrent episodes of sigmoid volvulus or for those at higher risk due to certain anatomical or physiological factors. The goal of sigmoidopexy is to alleviate symptoms, prevent potential complications, and optimize bowel function by restoring the natural orientation of the sigmoid colon.
Operative attachment of the sigmoid colon to the belly wall for the relief of prolapse of the rectum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sigmoidopexy" is composed of three parts: "sigmoido-", "-pexy".
1. "Sigmoido-" is derived from the word "sigmoid", which refers to the sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon is a part of the large intestine located between the descending colon and the rectum. The term "sigmoid" originates from the Greek word "sigma" (Σ), which is the eighteenth letter of the Greek alphabet. The sigmoid colon is shaped like the letter "S" or "sigma", and thus it was named accordingly.
2. "-pexy" is a suffix that comes from the Greek word "pēxís" meaning "fixation" or "surgical fastening". It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate a surgical procedure that involves the fixation or anchoring of a specific organ or structure.
