Tracheloschisis is a medical term that refers to a congenital defect in the neck's structures. The word's spelling is derived from Greek roots, with "trachelo" meaning "neck" and "schisis" meaning "splitting." The IPA phonetic transcription is /trəˌkɛləˈskɪsɪs/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. The pronunciation involves a soft "ch" sound in "trachelo" and "sk" sound in "schisis." Though the spelling may appear challenging, understanding its roots and phonetic transcription makes it easier to understand and pronounce.
Tracheloschisis refers to a rare medical condition characterized by the abnormal splitting or fissure of the neck or throat. The term "trachelo" is derived from the Greek word "trachilos," which means "neck," while "schisis" originates from the Greek word "schizein," meaning "to split." This condition is uncommon and can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to trauma or severe injury.
In cases of congenital tracheloschisis, the neck or throat may exhibit a visible opening or fissure. This can lead to various complications, such as difficulties in swallowing, breathing, and speaking. Infants with this condition may experience respiratory distress and require immediate medical attention. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the anomaly and improve the affected individual's quality of life.
Acquired tracheloschisis, on the other hand, typically arises from severe trauma or injury to the neck area. This can be a result of accidents, such as vehicular collisions or direct blows to the neck. The fissure or fracture may cause significant pain and discomfort, and medical intervention is often needed to assess the extent of the injury and manage potential complications, such as airway obstruction or neural damage.
Overall, tracheloschisis is a relatively rare condition that may either be present at birth or result from trauma. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention are crucial for effective management and improving the outcomes for individuals with this condition.
A congenital opening in the neck, due to persistence of one or more of the branchial fissures.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word tracheloschisis is derived from two Greek roots: trachelos meaning neck and schisis meaning cleft or split.