Definition

1. Noun:
   • A surgical procedure involving an incision into the uterus. This is most commonly performed as part of a cesarean section (C-section) to deliver a baby, but can also be done for other surgical purposes within the uterine cavity.

Usage

• Noun:
  • The term is used in medical contexts to describe the specific act of cutting into the uterine wall. It is a precise, technical term.
  • It is often mentioned in surgical reports, medical literature, and discussions of obstetric procedures.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon performed a hysterotomy to safely deliver the baby during the complicated birth.
  • A hysterotomy is a critical step in a classical cesarean section.

Advanced Usage

• "Elective hysterotomy": A planned surgical incision into the uterus, typically scheduled in advance rather than performed as an emergency.
  • An elective hysterotomy was scheduled due to the mother's pre-existing condition.
• "Hysterotomy site": Refers to the specific location on the uterus where the incision was made.
  • The healing of the hysterotomy site was monitored closely in the postpartum period.

Variants and Related Words

• Hysterectomy (n): A different surgical procedure involving the complete removal of the uterus. Important: Do not confuse "hysterotomy" (incision) with "hysterectomy" (removal).
• Laparotomy (n): A surgical incision into the abdominal cavity, which may be performed to access the uterus for a hysterotomy.
• Cesarean section / C-section (n): A common surgical delivery procedure that includes a hysterotomy as a key step.

Synonyms

• Uterine incision: A more descriptive, non-technical synonym.
• Surgical uterine entry: A descriptive phrase for the procedure.

Related Phrases

• "To perform a hysterotomy": The standard phrase for carrying out this surgical action.
  • The obstetric team was prepared to perform a hysterotomy if vaginal delivery became too risky.
• "Hysterotomy closure": Refers to the suturing or closing of the uterine incision after the surgical objective is completed.
  • Proper hysterotomy closure is essential to minimize the risk of uterine rupture in future pregnancies.

Noun

1. surgical incision into the uterus (as in cesarean section)