Electrocauterization

/ɪˌlɛktroʊˌkɔtəraɪˈzeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The process of burning, sealing, or destroying tissue using electrical current, often used to stop bleeding or remove growths.

Etymology

From electrocautery + -ization (process of doing something). Developed as surgical technique in late 19th century when reliable electrical equipment became available.

Kelly Says

Electrocauterization during surgery is so effective that surgeons can operate with smaller cuts because there's less bleeding—this led to minimally invasive surgery, where patients recover much faster with less scarring.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.