What does hysterotomy mean?
A hysterotomy is a surgical incision into the uterus. It may be made to access the uterine cavity for an operation or to facilitate delivery of a fetus during cesarean birth. The term is primarily used in medical and surgical contexts and refers to the incision itself rather than to the removal of the uterus. Although the expression can sound familiar because of its association with cesarean delivery, a hysterotomy describes a specific operative step rather than the entire delivery procedure. Its vocabulary is formed transparently from Greek roots meaning “uterus” and “cutting,” reflecting the procedure’s precise nature. The word is useful in medical writing because it distinguishes the uterine incision from both the operation as a whole and more extensive procedures such as hysterectomy.
nounA surgical incision into the uterus, typically made to access the uterine cavity or facilitate delivery of a fetus.
- A surgical incision into the uterus, especially one made to access the uterine cavity or facilitate delivery of a fetus.
"The surgeon extended the hysterotomy to deliver the baby safely."
"The surgical team performed a hysterotomy during the cesarean delivery."
"A hysterotomy may be used in operations involving the uterus or its contents."
Used when referring to more than one uterine incision or to distinct instances of the procedure.
"The surgeon documented both hysterotomies in the operative notes."
A hysterotomy is the small but crucial opening that can make a cesarean delivery possible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hysterotomy come from?
Hysterotomy combines Greek hysterē, meaning “womb” or “uterus,” with tomē, meaning “a cutting” or “incision.” The compound entered English in the 19th century in medical usage. It belongs to a family of terms formed on the same Greek root, including hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, and hysteroscopy, visual examination of the uterine cavity.
How hysterotomy is actually used
This is a specialist medical term. It names the incision itself rather than the entire surgical procedure, although it commonly refers to the uterine incision made during cesarean delivery.
Easily confused with hysterotomy
A hysterotomy is an incision into the uterus, whereas a hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus.