THORACOPLASTY Meaning and
Definition
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Thoracoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal or reshaping of a portion of the ribs and chest wall in order to treat certain medical conditions or improve lung function. It is primarily performed to correct deformities or abnormalities in the chest wall that may be causing respiratory difficulties, as well as to address conditions such as tuberculosis or empyema.
During thoracoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions in the chest wall, usually through the back, and carefully removes a segment of one or more ribs. This creates a void or cavity in the chest, enabling the lung(s) to expand and function more effectively. The procedure aims to decrease the size of the chest cavity, thus promoting the lung's ability to fully inhale and exhale air.
Thoracoplasty is a complex surgical intervention that requires careful planning and expertise. After the procedure, the patient may require support through a chest tube, which helps drain any excess fluid or air from the chest cavity.
While thoracoplasty can potentially alleviate respiratory symptoms and improve lung function, it is not without risks or potential complications. These may include infection, bleeding, pain, limited mobility, and changes in chest shape or contour.
Ultimately, thoracoplasty plays a vital role in the management and treatment of certain medical conditions, helping patients regain better lung function and potentially enhancing their overall respiratory health.
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Reparative or plastic surgery of the thorax.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for THORACOPLASTY
- rhoracoplasty
- fhoracoplasty
- ghoracoplasty
- yhoracoplasty
- 6horacoplasty
- 5horacoplasty
- tgoracoplasty
- tboracoplasty
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- thodacoplasty
Etymology of THORACOPLASTY
The word thoracoplasty is derived from two Greek roots: thorako meaning chest or thorax, and plasty meaning surgical repair or reshaping. Therefore, the literal translation of thoracoplasty is surgical repair or reshaping of the chest.
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