How Do You Spell VALVOTOMY?

1. Valvotomy is a medical procedure that involves the surgical incision or cutting of a heart valve to relieve stenosis (narrowing) or to improve blood flow through the valve. It is commonly used to treat congenital heart defects or acquired conditions that cause valve dysfunction.

   During a valvotomy, a surgeon carefully makes an incision in the diseased or abnormal valve, enlarging the opening and allowing improved blood flow through the heart chambers. The procedure may be performed on different heart valves, such as the aortic valve, mitral valve, or pulmonary valve, depending on the specific condition being addressed.

   Valvotomy can be performed in different ways, including open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques such as balloon valvuloplasty. Open-heart valvotomy involves making an incision in the chest, while balloon valvuloplasty involves inserting a catheter with a balloon tip into a blood vessel and guiding it to the valve. Once in position, the balloon is inflated, stretching and enlarging the valve opening.

   Valvotomy aims to relieve symptoms associated with a narrowed or dysfunctional valve, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fainting. By improving blood flow, the procedure allows the heart to pump blood more efficiently and reduces strain on the heart muscle.

   Post-surgery, patients may require medication to manage their condition and prevent complications. Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor the progress of the valvotomy and ensure optimal heart function.

2. Dichidotomy, cutting through a valve; specifically an incision of too large or rigid rectal folds.

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

Common Misspellings for VALVOTOMY

The word "valvotomy" is derived from two Greek roots: "valve" (βαλβίς - balbis) and "tome" (τομή - tomē).

1. Valve: The term "valve" refers to a device that controls the flow of a fluid, such as blood, by allowing it to pass in one direction and preventing backflow. In Greek, the term is "βαλβίς" (balbis).

2. Tome: The term "tome" means a cutting or incision. In Greek, the term is "τομή" (tomē), which refers to cutting or slicing.

Combining these roots, "valvotomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves cutting or incising a valve.