Cholecystocolotomy

/ˌkoʊləˌsɪstoʊkoʊˈlɑtəmi/ noun

Definition

A surgical procedure involving incision into both the gallbladder and the colon, often to remove stones or relieve obstruction.

Etymology

From Greek 'chole' (bile) + 'kystis' (bladder) + 'kolon' (colon) + 'tome' (incision). The '-otomy' suffix indicates cutting or making an incision, distinct from '-ostomy' which means creating an opening.

Kelly Says

The difference between '-ostomy' (creating a permanent opening) and '-otomy' (making a temporary incision) is crucial in surgery—this term means cutting into both organs, possibly removing a stone, then closing them back up.

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