Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy
Rhizotomy (pronounced: rye-ZOT-uh-mee) is a neurosurgical procedure that selectively destroys problematic nerve roots in the spinal cord. The procedure is used to relieve symptoms such as muscle spasms and chronic pain, especially in individuals with conditions such as spastic diplegia and other forms of cerebral palsy.
Etymology
The term "rhizotomy" is derived from the Greek words "rhiza," meaning "root," and "tome," meaning "cutting." Thus, the term literally translates to "cutting of the root."
Procedure
During a rhizotomy, a surgeon makes a small incision in the patient's back to access the spinal cord. The nerve roots are then identified, and the problematic ones are cut. This disrupts the nerve signals that are causing the patient's symptoms.
Related Terms
- Spinal Cord: The bundle of nerves that runs down the middle of the back, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
- Neurosurgery: The medical specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, surgical treatment, and rehabilitation of disorders which affect any portion of the nervous system.
- Cerebral Palsy: A group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture.
- Spastic Diplegia: A form of cerebral palsy that primarily affects the legs and, to a lesser extent, the arms.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, rhizotomy carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, it is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for chronic pain and muscle spasms when other treatments have failed.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rhizotomy
- Wikipedia's article - Rhizotomy
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