Cricoidectomy

/ˌkrɪkɔɪˈdɛktəmi/ noun

Definition

A surgical procedure involving the removal or partial removal of the cricoid cartilage from the larynx.

Etymology

From 'cricoid' (the ring-shaped cartilage) plus '-ectomy' (Greek ektemnein, to cut out). Medical terminology combining the anatomical target with the surgical action.

Kelly Says

Most cricoidectomy procedures are done very carefully because removing part of that ring-shaped cartilage affects both breathing and voice—it's delicate work that reconstructive surgeons take seriously.

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