The term "Subcutaneous Mastectomy" refers to a surgical procedure in which the breast tissue is removed from under the skin. The word is spelled phonetically as /ˌsʌbkjʊˈteɪniəs mæsˈtɛktəmi/. It is important to note that the "su-" prefix means "under" or "beneath," while the "cutaneous" refers to "skin." The "ma-" prefix means "breast" and "ectomy" means "removal." Knowing the meaning of each word helps to understand how the word is spelled and pronounced.
A subcutaneous mastectomy is a surgical procedure commonly performed to remove breast tissue either partially or entirely in order to reduce the risk of breast cancer in high-risk individuals or to treat existing breast cancer. This procedure involves the removal of breast tissue through an incision made in the breast area, often resulting in the complete removal of the nipple and areola complex. Unlike a total mastectomy, a subcutaneous mastectomy does not involve the removal of underlying muscle tissue or lymph nodes unless the disease has spread to these areas.
The main objective of a subcutaneous mastectomy is to eliminate or reduce the chances of developing breast cancer, making it a preventive option for individuals with a strong family history of the disease or those who carry certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. By removing the breast tissue, the risk of a future breast cancer diagnosis is significantly reduced, although there is still a small chance of developing cancer in residual breast tissue.
This procedure is also performed as a treatment option for existing breast cancer cases in select individuals. By removing the breast tissue, the cancer cells are eradicated, preventing further spread. This is often followed by additional treatments like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy to target remaining cancerous cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Overall, a subcutaneous mastectomy is a surgical intervention that involves the removal of breast tissue as a preventive measure or treatment for breast cancer. It is crucial for individuals considering this procedure to consult with a medical professional to assess their individual risk factors and determine the most suitable treatment option.
The word "subcutaneous mastectomy" is derived from two main components: "subcutaneous" and "mastectomy".
1. Subcutaneous: The term "subcutaneous" is derived from Latin. It is a combination of the prefix "sub-" meaning "under" or "below", and the word "cutis" meaning "skin". Therefore, "subcutaneous" literally means "under the skin". It is used to describe a medical procedure or condition that occurs or is located beneath the skin.
2. Mastectomy: The term "mastectomy" is derived from the classical Latin words "māstos" meaning "breast", and "ectomia" meaning "excision" or "removal". Thus, "mastectomy" refers to the surgical removal of one or both breasts.