Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
aortotomy
Pronunciation: ay-or-TOT-oh-mee
Surgical incision into the aortic wall, typically performed for access during cardiac or aortic procedures.
Full Definition
Aortotomy refers to the deliberate surgical incision made into the aortic wall to gain access to the aortic lumen or adjacent structures. This technique is commonly employed during aortic valve replacement, repair of aortic stenosis, or removal of aortic thrombus or embolism. The incision is typically made longitudinally and must be carefully closed to prevent bleeding and maintain structural integrity of the vessel wall.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with aortoplasty, which refers to repair rather than simple incision.
In Context
- "A longitudinal aortotomy was performed to access the aortic valve for replacement." — operative report
- "The aortotomy was closed using running 4-0 polypropylene suture with felt reinforcement." — operative report
Also known as
aortic incision
Contrasted with
aortic closure
aortic suture
Don't confuse with
aortoplasty
aortic anastomosis