What does laryngotomy mean?
A laryngotomy is a surgical incision into the larynx, the upper portion of the windpipe containing the vocal cords and protecting the airway during swallowing. In emergency medicine, the term can refer to an opening made in the larynx when swelling, trauma, or another condition obstructs breathing. In other contexts, it may denote surgical access to the larynx for examination or treatment. The word comes from Greek roots meaning “larynx” and “cutting,” and is related to terms such as laryngology and laryngoscope. It should not be confused with laryngoscopy, which examines the larynx without making an incision, or with tracheotomy, which involves the trachea below it. Laryngotomy is primarily used in medical and surgical contexts.
nounA surgical incision into the larynx, the upper part of the windpipe. The term may refer specifically to an incision made to open the airway or to a procedure involving surgical access to the larynx.
- A surgical incision into the larynx.
"The surgeon performed a laryngotomy to secure the patient's airway."
"An emergency laryngotomy was required after swelling obstructed the patient's airway."
"The medical textbook describes the technique and indications for laryngotomy."
The standard plural is formed by changing the final y to i and adding -es.
"The article reviews emergency laryngotomies performed in the hospital."
A laryngotomy is a surgical entrance into the body's voice box, the same organ involved in speaking and protecting the airway.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngotomy come from?
The word combines Greek larynx, meaning “larynx” or “voice box,” with Greek tomē, meaning “a cutting.” It developed in the context of surgical terminology, alongside related forms such as laryngoscope and laryngology. The term reflects the procedure's defining feature: making an incision into the larynx.
Related word forms
How laryngotomy is actually used
This is a technical medical term. It is related to but not interchangeable with laryngoscopy, an examination of the larynx, or tracheotomy, which opens the trachea.
Easily confused with laryngotomy
A laryngotomy involves an incision into the larynx, whereas a tracheotomy involves an incision into the trachea, the windpipe below the larynx.
Laryngoscopy is the examination of the larynx with an instrument, while a laryngotomy is a surgical incision into it.