What does hepatectomy mean?
A hepatectomy is a surgical operation that involves the removal of part or all of the liver. This procedure is typically performed to treat liver diseases, such as liver cancer, or to repair damaged liver tissue caused by injury or disease. The surgery can be partial, removing only the affected portion of the liver, or total, removing the entire liver. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary after a hepatectomy. The term is derived from the Greek words 'hepar,' meaning liver, and 'ektome,' meaning removal. Hepatectomy is a serious surgical procedure that requires careful consideration and expertise.
nounA surgical operation involving the removal of part or all of the liver.
- Surgical removal of part or all of the liver.
- A medical procedure used to treat liver diseases or injuries.
"The patient underwent a hepatectomy to remove the cancerous portion of their liver."
"The surgeon performed a hepatectomy to repair the damaged liver tissue."
"After the accident, the patient required a hepatectomy to remove the injured part of the liver."
countable, standard plural form used in medical contexts.
"The surgeon had performed several hepatectomies in her career."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hepatectomy
The term 'hepatectomy' originates from the Greek words 'hepar' (ἧπαρ), meaning liver, and 'ektome' (ἐκτομή), meaning removal or excision. This surgical term has been used in medical contexts since the late 19th century.
How hepatectomy is actually used
Formal medical term, commonly used in surgical and medical contexts.