American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) Practice Exam

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What does the suffix "-ostomy" refer to in medical procedures?

Removing a part of the anatomy
Creating an artificial opening
Entering a body cavity
Restructuring anatomical portions

The correct answer is: Creating an artificial opening

The suffix "-ostomy" refers specifically to the creation of an artificial opening in the body. In medical terminology, this procedure is often performed to allow the excretion of bodily waste or to divert the flow of bodily fluids. For instance, a colostomy creates an opening from the colon to the outside of the body, allowing stool to exit through the abdominal wall instead of through the rectum. This can be necessary for a variety of medical reasons, such as in cases of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or traumatic injuries. The other options pertain to different concepts in medical terminology. Removing a part of the anatomy is typically denoted by suffixes like "-ectomy." Entering a body cavity generally involves procedures that may use terms like "-scopy” (which refers to viewing or examining a cavity). Restructuring anatomical portions could involve words like “-plasty,” which relates to surgical repair or reconstruction. Each of these terms has its specific meanings, making it crucial to distinguish between them for clarity in medical communication.