Professional
Technical
IVT
aortotomy
Pronunciation: ay-OR-tot-uh-mee
Surgical incision into the aorta to access the aortic valve or repair aortic pathology.
Full Definition
Aortotomy is a precise surgical incision made into the wall of the aorta, typically performed during cardiac surgery to gain access to the aortic valve for replacement or repair procedures. The incision is usually made in the ascending aorta and must be carefully sutured closed after the procedure. Proper documentation of aortotomy technique and closure is essential for surgical records and post-operative monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence. Do not confuse with arteriotomy (incision into any artery).
In Context
- "The surgeon performed a transverse aortotomy to expose the calcified aortic valve." — Surgical report
- "Following valve replacement, the aortotomy was closed with 4-0 polypropylene sutures." — Operative note
Also known as
aortic incision
Don't confuse with
arteriotomy
aortic anastomosis