What does the suffix "ectomy" refer to in medical terminology?

The suffix "ectomy" in medical terminology specifically refers to the surgical removal or excision of a particular part of the body. This term is derived from the Greek word "ektome," which means "a cutting out" or "excision." It is commonly used in the names of surgical procedures that involve the removal of organs or other bodily structures, such as appendectomy (removal of the appendix) or cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder).

Understanding that "ectomy" denotes excision is crucial for effectively communicating in a medical context, as it provides clarity on the nature of surgical interventions being performed. Knowing this helps differentiate between various medical terms that focus on excisions versus other forms of surgical actions or assessments.