What is the meaning of the suffix 'ectomy' in surgical terms?

The suffix 'ectomy' is derived from the Greek word "ektomē," meaning "to cut out" or "removal." In surgical terminology, it specifically refers to the surgical removal of a specific part of the body or an organ. For example, a "appendectomy" is the surgical procedure to remove the appendix, and a "gastrectomy" refers to the removal of part or all of the stomach.

Understanding the meaning of medical suffixes is crucial for interpreting diverse medical terms accurately. The other choices reflect different surgical actions: 'to cut' addresses the action in a general sense but doesn't specify removal; 'surgical creation of a new opening' pertains to the process known as 'stomy'; and 'incision into an organ' refers to 'otomy', which signifies cutting into rather than removing. Thus, 'ectomy' is specifically associated with the concept of surgical removal, making it the most accurate choice in this context.