trachelectomy
Pronunciation: tray-kel-EK-toh-mee
Surgical removal of the cervix while preserving the uterine body, typically performed for early cervical cancer in fertility-preserving surgery.
Full Definition
A fertility-sparing surgical procedure involving the removal of the cervix and upper portion of the vagina while preserving the uterine corpus. This procedure is primarily performed in young women with early-stage cervical cancer who desire to maintain fertility. The remaining uterine body is connected to the upper vagina, and a cerclage is often placed to provide cervical competency. Trachelectomy can be performed via vaginal, abdominal, or minimally invasive approaches (laparoscopic or robotic), and may be combined with pelvic lymph node dissection for cancer staging.
Usage
Usage note: Fertility-preserving procedure; distinguish from other cervical procedures and ensure correct 'trachel-' prefix.
In Context
- "Robotic radical trachelectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed for stage IB1 cervical adenocarcinoma." — Operative report
- "The patient successfully conceived eighteen months following trachelectomy and is being monitored for cervical competency." — Prenatal care note