How Do You Spell SYMPHYSOTOMY?

1. Symphysotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the division or enlargement of the symphysis pubis, which is the cartilaginous joint connecting the two pubic bones in the pelvic region of the body. This procedure is primarily performed during childbirth in cases when vaginal delivery is impossible or fraught with certain risks, such as a disproportion between the size of the baby and the pelvic opening. By selectively cutting or widening the symphysis pubis, symphysotomy allows for the safe delivery of a larger baby without resorting to a cesarean section.

   During a symphysotomy procedure, a surgical incision is made through the lower abdomen to gain access to the symphysis pubis joint. The joint cartilage is then divided or stretched, creating more room in the pelvic area to facilitate the passage of the baby's head. Once the delivery is completed, the symphysis pubis is usually left to heal on its own without any additional surgical intervention.

   Symphysotomy was more commonly practiced in the past, especially when cesarean sections were associated with higher maternal mortality rates. However, with safer cesarean section techniques and improvements in obstetric care, symphysotomy has become a less frequently used procedure. Nowadays, it is mostly reserved for certain medical emergencies or cases where alternative delivery methods are not feasible. Proper consideration of the potential risks and benefits is crucial when deciding whether to perform a symphysotomy, and this decision is typically made by a team of obstetricians based on the individual circumstances of the patient.

2. Symphyseotomy.

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

Common Misspellings for SYMPHYSOTOMY

The word "Symphysotomy" is derived from the Greek words "symphysis" and "tomy".

1. "Symphysis" (σύμφυσις) refers to a joining together or growing together. It is derived from the Greek prefix "syn-" meaning "together" and the verb "phyo" meaning "to grow".

2. "Tomy" (τομή) comes from the Greek verb "temnein" meaning "to cut". It denotes a surgical incision or cutting.

Therefore, the word "Symphysotomy" combines these elements to describe a surgical procedure that involves cutting or incising the symphysis, which refers to a joint or a connection between bones.