Meaning & Definition of word "Appendectomy"

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    Appendectomy

    /ˌæpənˈdɛktəmi/

    noun:

    • 1. a surgical operation to remove the appendix.
      • Example: The doctor recommended an appendectomy as the best option for her severe appendicitis.
    • 2. an emergency procedure commonly performed when a patient has appendicitis.
      • Example: After experiencing intense abdominal pain, he was taken to the hospital for an appendectomy.
    • 3. a common type of surgery performed on both children and adults.
      • Example: Many patients recover quickly after an appendectomy with minimal complications.
    • 4. the surgical procedure which may be done laparoscopically or via open surgery.
      • Example: Her appendectomy was done laparoscopically, resulting in smaller scars and a shorter recovery time.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'appendix' meaning 'attached to' and Greek 'ektomē' meaning 'cutting out'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    pre-operative care:

    Instructions and care provided before surgery.

    post-operative recovery:

    The recovery period following surgery.

    laparoscopic appendectomy:

    A minimally invasive surgical technique for appendectomy.

    Related Words

    appendix:

    A small tube-like structure attached to the large intestine.

    appendicitis:

    Inflammation of the appendix requiring surgical intervention.

    surgery:

    A medical procedure that involves an incision.

    Slang Meanings of appendectomy

    Meaning: Going under the knife.

    Example Sentence: He had a case of appendicitis and was going under the knife for an appendectomy.

    Meaning: Tummy tuck.

    Example Sentence: After my appendectomy, I joked that I got a tummy tuck.