10 of the Most Complicated, Confusing Medical Terms Explained

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Last Updated on January 7, 2021

#6 – “-Otomy”

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“-Otomy” is similar to the suffix “-ectomy”, but instead of cutting out, it’s cutting into. One good example is “tracheotomy,” which involves cutting the windpipe open to clear the airway, mainly due to an allergic reaction where the person is unable to breathe.

Another example is gastrotomy. In case you couldn’t guess what being cut into here, it’s the stomach. However, it should be noted that gastrotomy is actually inserting a feeding tube through the abdomen. Hopefully, none of us will get to experience it.