arteriotomy

arteriotomy

A surgeon performs an arteriotomy to access a blocked vessel.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Surgical incision into an artery: "arteriotomy" refers to the medical procedure of cutting into an artery, typically for therapeutic purposes such as removing a blood clot, performing an angioplasty, or obtaining a blood sample directly from the artery.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The surgeon performed an arteriotomy to remove the embolus blocking the femoral artery. (A surgical cut into the artery to clear a blockage.)
    • During the procedure, a small arteriotomy was made to insert a catheter for imaging. (A deliberate incision into the artery to allow medical instruments.)
Advanced Usage

  • "emergency arteriotomy": an urgent surgical opening of an artery, often in trauma cases to relieve pressure or restore blood flow.

    • The paramedic performed an emergency arteriotomy to release the hematoma compressing the artery. (An urgent incision to treat a life-threatening condition.)

  • "arteriotomy closure": the post-procedure step of sealing the incision in the artery, often with sutures or a closure device.

    • After the arteriotomy, the surgeon carefully sutured the incision to prevent bleeding. (The act of closing the arterial opening after surgery.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Arteriotomy (n) — no common variant forms; the word is a technical medical term.

  • Arterial (adj): relating to an artery.

    • The arterial wall was thickened due to atherosclerosis. (Pertaining to the artery.)

  • Arteriovenous (adj): relating to both an artery and a vein.

    • An arteriovenous fistula may be created for dialysis access. (Involving both artery and vein.)
Synonyms
  • Vasotomy: surgical incision into a blood vessel (a broader term that includes arteries and veins).
  • Angiotomy: incision into a blood vessel (rarely used; often synonymous with arteriotomy when specifically referring to arteries).
Phrasal Verbs
  • "Arteriotomy" is a noun and does not form phrasal verbs.
Related Idioms
  • This is a technical medical term with no idiomatic usage.
Additional Notes
  • Medical context: Arteriotomy is distinct from venotomy (incision into a vein) and is typically performed under sterile conditions with local or general anesthesia. It carries risks such as bleeding, infection, and arterial thrombosis.