Transversectomy (/træns'vɜrsɛktəmi/) is a surgical procedure where the transverse colon is removed. The word is composed of three parts: "transverse" which means lying or extending across, "ectomy" which means removal of a body part or organ, and "sect" which means cutting. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word spells out each sound in the word, including the silent "e" at the end of "sectomy." Transversectomy is used to treat conditions such as colon cancer or Crohn's disease.
Transversectomy is a medical term used to describe a surgical procedure involving the transverse colon. It refers to the partial or complete removal of a segment of the transverse colon, which is a part of the large intestine.
The transverse colon is situated between the ascending colon and the descending colon in the abdominal cavity. It is responsible for the absorption of water and electrolytes, as well as the formation of feces. In certain medical conditions, such as cancerous growths, strictures, or severe inflammation, a transversectomy may be necessary to treat the underlying problem and restore normal digestive function.
During a transversectomy, the patient is usually under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to access the transverse colon. Depending on the individual case, the surgeon may either remove a specific segment of the transverse colon or perform a complete removal and subsequent reconnection of the remaining healthy ends. This procedure aims to eliminate the diseased or damaged portion of the colon and promote proper digestion and bowel movements.
Following a transversectomy, patients typically undergo a recovery period to allow their bodies time to heal. The duration of this recovery period can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the complexity of the surgery. Post-operative care may involve pain management, dietary restrictions, and close monitoring to ensure proper healing.
Exsection of the transverse process of a vertebra.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "transversectomy" is a combination of two components: "transverse" and "-ectomy".
1. "Transverse" is derived from the Latin word "transversus", which means "lying across or set crosswise". It is composed of two Latin roots, "trans", meaning "across" or "beyond", and "versus", meaning "to turn". In anatomy, "transverse" specifically refers to a horizontal or crosswise direction. It is commonly used to describe a plane or section that divides the body into upper and lower parts.
2. "-ectomy" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "ektomē", meaning "cutting out" or "excision". It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate a surgical removal or excision of a body part or tissue.