Thoracotomy

Term: ThoracotomyDefinition: A surgical procedure involving an incision into the chest wall to access the thoracic cavity, often used to diagnose or treat asbestos-related diseases.Phonetic Pronunciation: (thor-uh-KOT-uh-mee)Origin: The term "thoracotomy" originates from the Greek words "thorax," meaning chest, and "tomē," meaning a cutting or incision. This reflects the procedure's nature of cutting into the chest to access internal structures.Significance in Asbestos Context: Thoracotomy is significant in the context of asbestos-related diseases because it is often used to diagnose and treat conditions such as mesothelioma and lung cancer, which are linked to asbestos exposure. It allows for direct visualization and biopsy of affected tissues, aiding in accurate diagnosis and staging of the disease.Example Sentence: After years of working with asbestos insulation, the patient underwent a thoracotomy to confirm the presence of mesothelioma and to assess the extent of the disease.Related Terms: Mesothelioma, Pleurectomy, Biopsy, Lung Cancer, AsbestosisNotes: - Thoracotomy is an invasive procedure and may require a significant recovery period. - It is often performed under general anesthesia. - The procedure can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in asbestos-related cases.