5 Meanings Of Laparo Combining Form

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The combining form "laparo-" is derived from the Greek word "lapara," meaning "flank" or "side." In medical terminology, this combining form is used to describe procedures or conditions related to the abdomen or the flank area. Here are five meanings of the "laparo-" combining form:

1. Relating to the Abdomen

The "laparo-" combining form is often used to describe surgical procedures or conditions affecting the abdominal cavity. For example, laparotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision into the abdominal cavity to access the internal organs. Laparoscopy, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) to visualize the internal organs without making a large incision.

2. Pertaining to the Flank

The "laparo-" combining form can also refer to the flank area, which is the region between the ribs and the hip bone. For example, laparalgia is a type of pain that occurs in the flank area, often caused by kidney stones or other conditions affecting the kidneys.

3. Describing a Type of Hernia

A laparocele is a type of hernia that occurs when a weakness in the abdominal wall allows intestinal contents to protrude into the flank area. This type of hernia is often caused by a congenital defect or a previous surgical incision.

4. Referring to a Surgical Approach

The "laparo-" combining form can also describe a surgical approach that involves accessing the abdominal cavity through the flank area. For example, laparoscopic nephrectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing a diseased kidney through a small incision in the flank area.

5. Describing a Type of Injury

A laparolysis is a type of injury that occurs when there is a tearing of the abdominal wall, often caused by blunt trauma or a sudden contraction of the abdominal muscles.

In conclusion, the "laparo-" combining form has a range of meanings in medical terminology, from describing surgical procedures and conditions affecting the abdomen to referring to a type of hernia or injury. Understanding the meanings of this combining form can help healthcare professionals communicate more effectively and accurately diagnose and treat conditions affecting the abdominal cavity.

Common Medical Terms Using the "Laparo-" Combining Form

Here are some common medical terms that use the "laparo-" combining form:

• Laparotomy
• Laparoscopy
• Laparalgia
• Laparocele
• Laparoscopic nephrectomy
• Laparolysis

Prefixes and Suffixes Used with the "Laparo-" Combining Form

Here are some common prefixes and suffixes used with the "laparo-" combining form:

• Prefixes:
  • Laparo- (relating to the abdomen or flank)
  • Lapar- (relating to the flank)
• Suffixes:
  • -algia (pain)
  • -cele (hernia)
  • -lysis (tearing or separation)
  • -scopy ( visualization using a scope)