Splenorrhaphy (/spleˈnɔːrəfi/) is a medical term that refers to the surgical procedure of suturing or repairing a ruptured spleen. The word is composed of three parts: spleno- meaning spleen, -rrhaphy meaning suture or repair, and -y as a noun suffix meaning the process of. The spelling of the word can be challenging due to the combination of consonants, but the phonetic transcription provides a clear explanation of how to pronounce it. Splenorrhaphy is a life-saving medical intervention that can prevent severe bleeding and other complications associated with spleen injuries.
Splenorrhaphy is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the repair or suture of a rupture or tear in the spleen. The spleen is a vital organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen responsible for several functions, including filtering blood, storing red blood cells, and assisting in immune responses.
Splenorrhaphy is typically performed in cases where the spleen has sustained injury due to trauma, such as from a car accident or a sports injury. When the spleen is ruptured, it can lead to internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed. During the splenorrhaphy procedure, the surgeon will carefully remove any clots or debris from the ruptured area and then suture the tear together to repair the spleen. This is done using specialized surgical techniques to ensure that the sutures hold and the spleen regains its normal function.
After undergoing splenorrhaphy, patients are closely monitored to ensure they do not experience complications, such as infection or further bleeding. Depending on the extent of the injury and the patient's overall condition, additional treatment such as blood transfusions may be necessary. In some cases, if the spleen is severely damaged and cannot be repaired, a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may be required as an alternative treatment.
1. Suturing a ruptured spleen. 2. Splenopexia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "splenorrhaphy" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "splen" meaning spleen, and "rrhaphy" meaning suturing or sewing. The term "splenorrhaphy" refers to a surgical procedure involving the suturing or repair of a damaged or injured spleen.