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Mastectomy: meaning, definitions and examples

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mastectomy

 

[ mæˈstɛktəmi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical procedure

A mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both breasts are removed, typically to treat or prevent breast cancer. This operation may involve the complete removal of breast tissue, and surrounding lymph nodes may also be removed if necessary. There are several types of mastectomy, including total mastectomy, radical mastectomy, and partial mastectomy, depending on the extent of cancer and the patient's needs. The procedure is often followed by reconstructive surgery to restore the appearance of the breasts.

Synonyms

breast removal, surgical excision

Examples of usage

  • She underwent a mastectomy after her diagnosis.
  • The mastectomy was recommended due to her family history of breast cancer.
  • Many women choose mastectomy as a preventative measure.
  • After her mastectomy, she sought emotional support from a support group.

Translations

Translations of the word "mastectomy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mastectomia

🇮🇳 मास्टेक्टॉमी

🇩🇪 Mastektomie

🇮🇩 mastektomi

🇺🇦 масектомія

🇵🇱 mastektomia

🇯🇵 乳房切除術

🇫🇷 mastectomie

🇪🇸 mastectomía

🇹🇷 mastektomi

🇰🇷 유방 절제술

🇸🇦 استئصال الثدي

🇨🇿 mastektomie

🇸🇰 mastektómia

🇨🇳 乳腺切除术

🇸🇮 mastektomija

🇮🇸 brjóstnám

🇰🇿 маммектомия

🇬🇪 მასტექტომია

🇦🇿 mastektomiya

🇲🇽 mastectomía

Etymology

The word 'mastectomy' is derived from the International Scientific Vocabulary, where 'mast-' comes from the Greek word 'mastos,' meaning 'breast,' and '-ectomy' originates from the Greek word 'ektomē,' which means 'to cut out' or 'to excise.' The term began to appear in medical literature in the late 19th century as surgical techniques for breast cancer treatment were developing. Over time, mastectomy evolved from being a common practice for breast cancer treatment to a more nuanced approach that often considers patient options, including partial mastectomy or lumpectomy, depending on the cancer's stage and location. Today, mastectomy remains an important option in breast cancer treatment, continuing to be a significant part of oncological surgery.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,195, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.