The correct spelling of "transversovertical index" is a tricky one, but can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. "Transverso" is pronounced /trænzˈvɜːrsoʊ/ with a silent "e" at the end. "Vertical" is pronounced /ˈvɜːrtɪkəl/, with emphasis on the second syllable. And "index" is pronounced /ˈɪndeks/ with emphasis on the first syllable. Altogether, the word is pronounced /trænzˌvɜːrsoʊˈvɜːrtɪkəl ˈɪndeks/, which is a mouthful, but important to get right in medical and scientific contexts.
The "transversovertical index" is a quantitative measure used in orthodontics and dentistry to assess the relationship between the transverse and vertical dimensions of the face. It is a numerical indicator that helps evaluate the harmony and balance of these dimensions within a patient's facial structure.
This index is determined by measuring several key anatomical points on the patient's face and cranium. Primarily, the distance between two points, namely the interpupillary point and the nasion, is measured horizontally, representing the transverse dimension. Additionally, the vertical dimension is measured by assessing the perpendicular distance from the nasion to the facial midpoint.
By comparing these two measurements, the transversovertical index allows orthodontists and dentists to determine whether a patient's facial structure is balanced or exhibits any anomalies in terms of transverse and vertical proportions. A higher index value indicates a greater transverse dimension in relation to the vertical dimension, suggesting a wider face or an excessive growth in the horizontal direction. Conversely, a lower index value indicates a more harmonious balance between the transverse and vertical dimensions.
The transversovertical index is a useful tool for clinicians when diagnosing and planning treatment for patients with craniofacial malformations or disorders. It serves as an objective quantitative measure that assists in understanding the underlying causes of facial imbalances, which can inform the selection of appropriate orthodontic or surgical interventions to achieve optimal facial aesthetics and functional outcomes.
Vertical index.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "transversovertical index" does not have a specific etymology, as it is not a commonly used word or phrase in any language. It appears to be a combination of the words "transverso" and "vertical" but may have been specifically coined for a particular context or field. Without more information, it is difficult to determine the exact origin or meaning of this specific term.