A surgical procedure where a surgeon makes cuts in the thick layer of tissue (called fascia) that covers muscles to relieve pressure or allow muscles to expand.
From Latin 'fascia' (band or bundle) combined with Greek '-otomy' (cutting). The term emerged in medical terminology in the 20th century as surgical techniques advanced.
Fasciotomy literally saves lives in emergency situations like crush injuries—by cutting the tight fascia, doctors can prevent the muscle from dying from lack of blood flow, a condition called compartment syndrome. It's one of those surgical interventions where making a bigger wound actually heals the deeper damage.
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