Definition

A surgical procedure that involves making an opening in the colon.

Example

The doctor performed a colotomy to treat the patient's bowel obstruction.

Conversation

I heard that my uncle had to get a colotomy last week.

Oh no, I hope he's okay! What happened?

He had some issues with his digestion, so the doctor recommended the colotomy.

That sounds serious, but I'm sure he'll feel better after the surgery.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Colotomy is formed from "colo-" (from Greek "kolon", meaning colon) and "-tomy" (from Greek "tomia", meaning cutting). The word refers to the surgical procedure of cutting into the colon.

Memory Tip

Think of 'colon' ('colo-') and 'cutting' ('-tomy') to remember that colotomy means cutting into the colon.

Visually Confused Words