How Do You Spell PHACOCYSTECTOMY?

1. Phacocystectomy is a medical term primarily used in ophthalmology, which refers to a surgical procedure involving the removal of a cataract-affected lens and its surrounding capsule from the eye. The word is derived from several roots: "phaco" from the Greek word for lens, "cyst" indicating a sac or capsule, and "ectomy" denoting a surgical removal.

   Cataracts develop as a result of the lens becoming cloudy or opaque, leading to visual impairment. A phacocystectomy is commonly employed when the cataract is significantly affecting the patient's vision and interfering with their day-to-day activities.

   During the procedure, the surgeon creates a small incision in the cornea, then uses an instrument called a phacoemulsification probe to break up the cloudy lens into tiny fragments. These fragments are then suctioned out from the eye. After removing the lens, the surgeon may implant an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore vision and maintain eye function.

   Phacocystectomy is considered a safe and effective surgery with a relatively short recovery time. It is typically performed using local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain awake throughout the procedure. As with any surgical intervention, there are associated risks, including infection, bleeding, or damage to other structures within the eye. However, advancements in surgical techniques and equipment have significantly reduced the occurrence of complications associated with phacocystectomy.

   In summary, phacocystectomy refers to the surgical removal of a cataract-affected lens along with its surrounding capsule, with the ultimate goal of restoring visual function and improving the patient's quality of life.

2. Surgical removal of a portion of the capsule of the crystalline lens.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PHACOCYSTECTOMY

The word "phacocystectomy" is derived from two Greek words: "phaco" meaning lens, and "cystectomy" meaning surgical removal of a cyst.

- "Phaco" comes from the Greek word "phakos" meaning lens or lentil. It is also used in ophthalmology to refer to the crystalline lens of the eye.

- "Cystectomy" is a compound of "cyst" meaning bladder or sac, and "ectomy" meaning surgical removal. In this context, it refers to the removal of a cyst.

Therefore, "phacocystectomy" refers to the surgical procedure of removing a cyst involving the lens of the eye.