Curettage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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curettage
[kjʊəˈrɛtɑːʒ ]
Definition
medical procedure
Curettage is a surgical procedure that involves scraping the interior of a cavity, such as the uterus. It is often performed to remove abnormal tissue or to collect samples for further examination. Curettage can be part of an abortion procedure or may be used to treat conditions like uterine fibroids or polyps.
Synonyms
dilatation and curettage, scraping, suction curettage.
Examples of usage
- The doctor recommended curettage to address the uterine issues.
- After the diagnosis, the patient underwent curettage.
- Curettage was necessary to clear the retained products of conception.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Medical Procedures
- Curettage is commonly used in gynecology to remove tissue from the uterus.
- There are two main types: suction curettage and sharp curettage, depending on the methods and tools used.
- It can also be used in dermatology to treat skin lesions and remove abnormal cells.
Cultural Views
- In some cultures, the idea of cleansing is associated not just with health but with spiritual renewal.
- Historically, the procedure has been viewed with mixed feelings, balancing the benefits of medical progress with the discomfort associated with invasive procedures.
Psychological Impact
- Many patients experience anxiety before the procedure due to the invasive nature of curettage.
- Understanding the procedure helps mitigate fears and can lead to better post-procedure recovery and emotional wellness.
Historical Use
- Originally used only for surgical procedures, the concept of curettage dates back to ancient Roman and Egyptian medicine.
- Over the years, advancements in medical tools have greatly improved the safety and effectiveness of curettage techniques.
Origin of 'curettage'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the French word 'curer,' meaning 'to cleanse' or 'to cure.'
- The suffix '-age' in French often denotes an action or a process, linking it directly to cleansing in medical contexts.
The term 'curettage' is derived from the French word 'curette,' which means 'to scrape' or 'to clean.' This word comes from the Latin 'curare,' meaning 'to take care of,' and is related to the notion of cleaning or caring for a surface or cavity. The procedure has its roots in various medical practices dating back centuries, where similar scraping techniques were used for therapeutic purposes. Over time, the practice became more formalized in obstetrics and gynecology, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries, as physicians sought more effective methods for managing uterine conditions. The term has since become standard in modern medical terminology, particularly in relation to women's health.