Syndesmotomy is a medical term that refers to the surgical process of cutting a ligament or band of fibrous tissue. It is derived from the Greek words "syndesmos," meaning ligament, and "tomē," meaning cutting. The correct pronunciation of "syndesmotomy" is /ˌsɪn.dɛzˈmɒ.tə.mi/, with the stress falling on the second syllable. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), where each symbol represents a specific sound in the English language.
Syndesmotomy is a medical term referring to a surgical procedure that involves the incision and division of a ligament known as a syndesmosis. The syndesmosis is a type of fibrous joint found between two bones, in which the bones are connected by strong, fibrous ligaments. The main purpose of a syndesmosis is to provide stability and allow limited movement between the bones.
During a syndesmotomy, a surgeon carefully cuts the syndesmotic ligament to relieve tension or correct certain conditions. This procedure is typically performed under anesthesia and may involve open or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the specific case. After the ligament is divided, the surgeon may decide to repair or remove a portion of it, depending on the intended outcome.
Syndesmotomy is commonly performed in the context of ankle injuries, particularly in cases of high ankle sprains or ankle fractures where the syndesmosis is damaged or disrupted. By performing a syndesmotomy, the surgeon aims to restore proper alignment and stability to the ankle joint, allowing for optimal healing and functional recovery.
It is important to note that syndesmotomy is a specialized surgical procedure that should only be performed by trained healthcare professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons or podiatrists. The success and outcome of a syndesmotomy procedure may vary depending on the individual case, the skill of the surgeon, and adherence to post-operative care and rehabilitation protocols.
1. The surgical division of a ligament. 2. The anatomy of the ligaments.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "syndesmotomy" is derived from two Greek roots: "syndesmos" (σύνδεσμος) meaning "ligament" or "bond", and "tomē" (τομή) meaning "cut" or "incision". When combined, the word "syndesmotomy" refers to a surgical procedure involving the cutting or incision of a ligament.