Splanchnocele (splank-no-seel) is a medical term used to describe the abnormal protrusion or herniation of an organ from its normal cavity into another. The word is composed of two parts: "splanchno," derived from the Greek word "splankhnon" meaning "viscera" or internal organs, and "cele," meaning "pouch or cavity." The pronunciation of this word may seem challenging at first, but breaking it down into its two components and practicing the IPA phonetic transcription can help with correct spelling and pronunciation.
Splanchnocele is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the protrusion or herniation of an organ or organs through a weakened or damaged abdominal wall. Specifically, it involves the protrusion of the abdominal viscera, such as the intestines, stomach, liver, or spleen, into a body cavity or a hernia sac.
This abnormality usually occurs due to the weakening or tearing of the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the abdominal area. It can be congenital, meaning present at birth, or acquired due to factors like injury, surgery, or repeated strain on the abdominal muscles.
Splanchnocele is typically diagnosed through physical examination, medical imaging techniques like ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans, and sometimes with the help of other diagnostic tests. Common symptoms may include a visible bulge or swelling at the site of the herniation, discomfort, pain, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, and potentially gastrointestinal issues.
Treatment for splanchnocele typically involves surgical intervention to repair and reinforce the weakened abdominal wall or to relocate the herniated organ(s) back into their proper position. In some cases, support devices like braces or belts may be used to provide temporary relief or prevent further herniation. Post-surgery, patients may require appropriate post-operative care, including monitoring and pain management, to ensure proper healing and recovery.
1. Hernia of any of the abdominal viscera. 2. Splanchnocoele.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "splanchnocele" is derived from two Greek roots: "splanchnon" and "kele".
The term "splanchnon" (σπλάγχνον) means "viscera" or "internal organs" in Greek. It can refer to the abdominal organs or the visceral structures in general.
The suffix "cele" (κήλη) comes from the Greek word "kēlē" meaning "tumor", "swelling", or "hernia". It is commonly used in medical terminology to denote a hernia or a sac-like protrusion of tissue through a weakened area or opening in the body.
Therefore, "splanchnocele" combines these two elements to describe a condition where there is a hernia or abnormal protrusion of the internal organs or viscera through the abdominal wall.