Clavicotomy

/klævɪˈkɒtəmi/ noun

Definition

A surgical procedure involving cutting or surgical division of the clavicle (collarbone).

Etymology

From Latin 'clavicula' (clavicle/collarbone) + Greek '-tomia' (cutting). Medical term combining anatomical part with surgical procedure suffix.

Kelly Says

Clavicotomy was historically performed to treat certain shoulder injuries or to improve access during complex shoulder surgery, but it's rarely done today because modern surgical techniques can usually achieve the same results without permanently cutting through a major structural bone.

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