ACHILLOTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Achillotomy is a medical procedure aimed at the surgical division or cutting of the Achilles tendon. This tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, is the largest and strongest in the human body, connecting the heel bone to the calf muscles. It plays a vital role in the movement of the foot and ankle, allowing for actions such as standing on tiptoe or pushing off while walking or running.
Achillotomy is typically performed to treat conditions that affect the Achilles tendon, such as tendonitis, tendon rupture, or Achilles tendon contracture. The procedure involves making a small incision in the back of the leg, near the heel, and then carefully cutting the tendon. This incision is usually made with the assistance of specialized surgical instruments.
After the Achilles tendon is divided, the surgeon may choose to reattach the ends of the tendon using sutures or perform additional procedures depending on the specific underlying condition being treated. The goal of achillotomy is to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore normal function to the affected leg.
Post-operation, a period of immobilization with the use of a cast or walking boot is often required to allow the divided tendon to heal properly. Rehabilitation exercises, including physical therapy, may also be prescribed to promote proper tendon healing and aid in the restoration of muscle strength and flexibility.
Achillotomy is a surgical technique that has shown effective results in relieving the symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from various Achilles tendon disorders.
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Division of the tendo calcaneus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACHILLOTOMY
- zchillotomy
- schillotomy
- wchillotomy
- qchillotomy
- axhillotomy
- avhillotomy
- afhillotomy
- adhillotomy
- acgillotomy
- acbillotomy
- acnillotomy
- acjillotomy
- acuillotomy
- acyillotomy
- achullotomy
- achjllotomy
- achkllotomy
- achollotomy
- ach9llotomy
- ach8llotomy
Etymology of ACHILLOTOMY
The word "achillotomy" derives from two Greek roots: "Achilles" and "tomē".
1. "Achilles" refers to the legendary Greek hero of the Trojan War, known for his strength and resistance to injury. The name "Achilles" comes from the Greek word "achos", meaning "pain" or "grief".
2. "Tomē" comes from the Greek verb "temnein", which means "to cut". It is a common root used in medical terminology to indicate surgical incisions or cutting.
Therefore, "achillotomy" can be understood as the surgical cutting or incision of the Achilles tendon.
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