SPHINCTEROTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Sphincterotomy is a medical procedure commonly performed to treat various conditions related to the digestive system, specifically the sphincter muscles. It involves the surgical incision or cutting of the sphincter muscles to widen the opening, allowing for improved or easier passage of substances through the affected area.
The procedure is typically done endoscopically, using a specialized tool known as an endoscope that is inserted through the mouth or anus, depending on the location of the sphincter muscle. Sphincterotomy is most frequently performed on the lower esophageal sphincter, the pyloric sphincter in the stomach, or the internal anal sphincter.
This procedure is particularly useful for relieving obstructions or narrowing of the affected sphincter muscles caused by conditions such as gallstones, strictures, or spasms. By cutting the muscle, the opening is widened, allowing for the smooth passage of fluids or substances. Additionally, sphincterotomy may be performed as a treatment for certain conditions like chronic anal fissures, which can promote healing and alleviate associated symptoms.
Sphincterotomy is generally considered a safe procedure with few risks. However, as with any surgical intervention, potential complications include bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding tissues, or in rare cases, perforation. Therefore, it is essential for the procedure to be carried out by a trained healthcare professional.
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Division of a sphincter muscle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPHINCTEROTOMY
- sphincterectomy
- aphincterotomy
- zphincterotomy
- xphincterotomy
- dphincterotomy
- ephincterotomy
- wphincterotomy
- sohincterotomy
- slhincterotomy
- s-hincterotomy
- s0hincterotomy
- spgincterotomy
- spbincterotomy
- spnincterotomy
- spjincterotomy
- spuincterotomy
- spyincterotomy
- sphuncterotomy
- sphjncterotomy
- sphkncterotomy
Etymology of SPHINCTEROTOMY
The word "sphincterotomy" is derived from two components: "sphincter" and "-otomy".
1. "Sphincter": The term "sphincter" originated from the Greek word "sphingktḗr" (σφιγκτήρ), which means "that which binds tightly" or "tight band". It refers to a circular muscle that contracts and relaxes to control the opening and closing of certain body passages. The Greek term itself comes from the verb "sphinggnymi" (σφίγγνυμι), meaning "to squeeze" or "constrict".
2. "-otomy": The suffix "-otomy" is derived from the Greek word "tomḗ" (τομή), which means "cutting" or "incision".
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