How Do You Spell PHRENICOTOMY?

1. Phrenicotomy, also referred to as phrenic nerve division or phrenic neurectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the severing or partial removal of the phrenic nerve. The phrenic nerve is a major nerve responsible for controlling the contraction and relaxation of the diaphragm muscle, which plays a crucial role in the process of breathing.

   Phrenicotomy is usually performed as a treatment option for patients who suffer from severe or chronic hiccups that have not responded to other forms of medical treatment. By interrupting the nerve signals sent by the phrenic nerve, the involuntary spasms of the diaphragm that cause hiccups can be effectively halted. This procedure is typically considered as a last resort when all other conservative measures have failed to provide relief.

   The surgical procedure itself involves making an incision to access the phrenic nerve. The surgeon then proceeds to either divide the nerve or partially remove a section of it to disrupt its functioning. Phrenicotomy is typically carried out under general anesthesia and may involve the use of minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy, to minimize post-operative pain and facilitate a quicker recovery.

   Despite its effectiveness in treating severe hiccups, phrenicotomy is considered a highly specialized procedure and is not without risks. Potential complications include damage to surrounding structures, infection, bleeding, and injury to the lung. It is therefore important for patients considering this surgical intervention to thoroughly discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider.

2. Section of the phrenic nerve in order to induce unilateral paralysis of the diaphragm, which is then pushed up by the abdominal viscera and exerts compression upon a diseased lung.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PHRENICOTOMY

The word "phrenicotomy" is derived from two Greek roots: "phren" which means "mind" or "diaphragm", and "tomos" which means "cutting".

In Greek, "phren" can refer to both the mind and the diaphragm, as there was a belief that the diaphragm played a role in the regulation of emotions and thoughts. "Tomos" refers to the act of cutting.

Therefore, "phrenicotomy" can be interpreted as the surgical cutting or incision of the diaphragm or mind. However, in modern medical usage, it specifically refers to the surgical incision of the phrenic nerve, which controls the movement of the diaphragm.