Trachelectomy is a medical procedure used to treat cervical cancer. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The first syllable "trach" is pronounced /tɹæk/ which refers to the trachea or windpipe. The next syllable "e" is pronounced as /ɛ/ which is a short e sound. The final three syllables "lec-tom-y" are pronounced /lɛktəmɪ/ which means surgical removal. Together, the word is spelled as "trachelectomy" /tɹækɛlɛktəmɪ/.
Trachelectomy is a medical procedure that involves the removal of the cervix while leaving the uterus intact. It is typically performed as a treatment option for certain cases of cervical cancer, specifically in young women who wish to preserve their fertility. The procedure aims to remove the cancerous tissue from the cervix while allowing the woman to potentially conceive and carry a pregnancy to term in the future.
During a trachelectomy, the cervix is surgically removed, and the upper part of the vagina is sewn to the remaining portion of the uterus. This procedure helps maintain the structural integrity of the uterus while removing cancerous cells from the cervix. It is usually followed by a lymph node dissection to assess the spread of the cancerous cells into the lymphatic system.
Trachelectomy is considered a fertility-sparing procedure, allowing women to have the opportunity to conceive naturally after the surgery. However, it is important to note that successful pregnancy rates following trachelectomy can vary depending on various factors, including the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.
It is essential for women considering a trachelectomy to consult with their healthcare team to assess the potential risks, benefits, and limitations associated with the procedure. Regular follow-up appointments and screenings are typically recommended to monitor the patient's health and detect any signs of recurrence.
Amputation of the cervix uteri.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "trachelectomy" is derived from two Greek roots: "trachea" and "ektomē".
- "Trachea" refers to the windpipe, which is a tube-like structure that connects the larynx (voice box) to the lungs.
- "Ektomē" means "excision" or "removal" in Greek.
So, "trachelectomy" essentially means the surgical removal or excision of a part or the entire trachea.