Tendotome, spelled /tɛn.do.toʊm/, is a surgical instrument used for cutting tendons. The word is derived from the Greek words "tendōn" meaning "tendon" and "tomḗ" meaning "a cutting". The spelling of tendotome follows the phonetic rules of English where the letter "e" is pronounced as /ɛ/ and the letter "o" is pronounced as /oʊ/. The stress is on the second syllable, making it sound like "TEN-doh-tohm". Tendotome is an important tool for orthopedic surgeons and its correct spelling is crucial in medical settings.
A tendotome is a surgical instrument commonly used in orthopedic procedures to perform a tenotomy. This medical device typically consists of a long, slender handle with a sharp, pointed blade or scalpel at one end. The tendotome is specifically designed to make precise incisions in tendons to release tension or lengthen them.
The procedure of using a tendotome, known as tenotomy, involves making a controlled cut in a targeted tendon to improve joint mobility or correct conditions such as contractures. Surgeons carefully insert the blade of the tendotome into the tendon, ensuring accuracy and avoiding damage to surrounding tissues. The shape and sharpness of the blade allow for a clean and accurate incision with minimal trauma to the patient.
Tendotomes are commonly made of stainless steel or other durable materials that can withstand the physical demands of surgery and can be easily sterilized. They come in various sizes and designs, each specifically tailored for different tendons and surgical needs. Additionally, tendotomes may incorporate safety features, such as retractable blades or guards, to minimize the risk of accidental injury during handling or storage.
In summary, a tendotome is a surgical instrument used to perform tenotomy, a procedure involving the precise cutting of tendons to release tension or correct impairments. Its design, material, and size may vary depending on the specific tendon and surgical requirements, ultimately facilitating accurate and safe tendon incisions.
Tenotome.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tendotome" is derived from two roots: "tendo" and "tome".
1. "Tendo" comes from the Latin word "tendere", meaning "to stretch" or "to extend". It is also related to the Latin word "tendinis", which means "tendon". This Latin root indicates the association of the word with tendons.
2. "Tome" is derived from the Greek word "tomḗ", meaning "a cutting" or "a slice". This root refers to the instrument used for cutting or dividing something.
Therefore, "tendotome" combines these two roots to form a word that specifically refers to a surgical instrument used for cutting tendons or for tendon-related procedures.