Definition

1. Noun:
   • A surgical incision into the sclera of the eye: A sclerotomy is a precise surgical procedure involving the cutting or making of an opening in the sclera, which is the white, tough outer layer of the eyeball.

Usage

• This term is used exclusively in medical and surgical contexts, specifically within ophthalmology (the branch of medicine concerning the eyes).
• It describes a specific step or type of procedure, often performed to gain access to the interior of the eye or to relieve pressure.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon performed a sclerotomy to drain the fluid from the eye.
  • A small sclerotomy is often required during vitrectomy surgery.

Advanced Usage

• Pars plana sclerotomy: A specific type of incision made in a particular zone of the sclera, a common approach for accessing the vitreous cavity of the eye.
  • The procedure utilized a pars plana sclerotomy for instrument insertion.

Variants and Related Words

• Sclera (n): The dense, white, fibrous outer coat enclosing the eyeball, except the part covered by the cornea.
• Scleritis (n): Inflammation of the sclera.
• -tomy: A combining form meaning "cutting, incision" (e.g., laparotomy, phlebotomy).

Synonyms

• Scleral incision: A direct descriptive synonym.
• Surgical incision of the sclera: A longer, explanatory phrase with the same meaning.

Notes

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs associated with this highly technical medical term.
• The procedure is never performed in isolation; it is always a part of a larger surgical operation on the eye.

Noun

1. surgical incision of the sclerotic coat of the eye