Intermediate
Technical
IVT
osteotomy
Pronunciation: os-tee-OT-oh-mee
Surgical cutting of bone, typically performed to realign or reshape skeletal structures.
Full Definition
A surgical procedure involving the deliberate cutting or removal of bone tissue to correct deformities, realign structures, or access underlying anatomy. In craniofacial surgery, osteotomies are fundamental techniques used in procedures such as orthognathic surgery, cranial vault remodeling, and facial reconstruction. Various types include linear cuts, wedge resections, and complex three-dimensional bone movements, often followed by rigid fixation with plates and screws.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'osteotomies'; distinguish from osteectomy which refers to bone removal rather than cutting.
In Context
- "Multiple osteotomies were performed to achieve proper mandibular alignment." — Operative report
- "The surgeon planned precise osteotomy lines using three-dimensional imaging." — Surgical planning note
Also known as
bone cutting
bone sectioning
Contrasted with
osteosynthesis
bone grafting
Don't confuse with
osteectomy
ostectomy