Barb

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Barb (bärb)

Barb is a term used in the medical field, particularly in the context of surgery and veterinary medicine. It refers to a sharp projection extending backward (as from the point of an arrow or fishhook) and preventing easy extraction.

Pronunciation

Barb is pronounced as "bärb".

Etymology

The term "Barb" is derived from the Middle English word "barbe", which is from the Old French, and ultimately from the Latin "barba", meaning "beard". This is likely due to the resemblance of these projections to a beard's bristles.

Related Terms

  • Barbed Suture: A type of suture that has barbs on its surface, used in surgical procedures to close wounds or surgical incisions.
  • Barbed Wire: A type of steel fencing wire constructed with sharp edges or points arranged at intervals along the strands. It is used to prevent passage by humans and animals.
  • Fishhook: A device for catching fish either by impaling them in the mouth or, more rarely, by snagging the body of the fish. Fishhooks have been employed for centuries by anglers to catch fresh and saltwater fish.

Usage in Medical Context

In a medical context, barbs are often referred to in relation to certain types of sutures known as barbed sutures. These are sutures that have barbs on them that can grip the tissue and hold the suture in place without the need for tying a knot. This can be beneficial in certain surgical procedures as it can reduce the time needed for the procedure and potentially reduce complications associated with knots.

See Also

External links

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