Transduodenal Sphincterotomies is a medical procedure used to treat conditions of the bile duct or pancreas. The word is pronounced as /trænzduːədɛnəl sfɪŋkteroʊtəmiz/. It is spelled in this way because words in medical terminology often use roots from Latin or Greek and are combined with prefixes and/or suffixes to create new words. Trans- is a Latin prefix meaning "across", duodenal refers to the small intestine, sphincter comes from the Greek sphingein meaning "to bind", and -otomy is a suffix meaning "to cut into".
Transduodenal sphincterotomies, also known as transduodenal biliary sphincterotomies or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), are medical procedures performed in order to alleviate obstructions or disorders affecting the bile duct or pancreatic duct. This minimally invasive procedure involves making an incision or creating an opening in the sphincter muscle that surrounds the ampulla (the opening in the duodenum that leads to the bile duct and pancreatic duct) to improve the flow of bile and digestive enzymes.
During the procedure, a specialized endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided down the esophagus, stomach, and into the duodenum. Using real-time X-ray imaging and advanced tools passed through the endoscope, the physician gains access to the ampulla. By carefully incising or widening the sphincter muscle, the physician can eliminate or reduce any blockages that are causing the bile or pancreatic fluid to become trapped.
Transduodenal sphincterotomies are commonly performed to treat conditions such as choledocholithiasis (gallstones in the common bile duct), biliary strictures (narrowing of the bile duct), and papillary stenosis (narrowing of the sphincter muscle). By addressing these obstructions, the bile flow can be restored, allowing for improved digestion and reducing the risk of complications such as infections or jaundice.
After the procedure, patients may experience some mild discomfort or bloating, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days. In most cases, patients can resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure. However, it is important to follow the physician's instructions regarding diet, medications, and any additional measures required for recovery.
The term "Transduodenal Sphincterotomies" consists of two main parts: "Transduodenal" and "Sphincterotomies".
1. Transduodenal:
- Trans-: a Latin prefix meaning "across" or "through".
- Duodenal: a term related to the duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine.
Therefore, "Transduodenal" refers to a procedure or action that goes across or through the duodenum.
2. Sphincterotomies:
- Sphincter: a term derived from the Greek word "sphingein" meaning "to bind tightly". It refers to a circular muscle that functions to control the flow of substances through a tube or opening in the body.
- Otomy: derived from the Greek word "tomḗ" meaning "incision".