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The word [trachelectomy] is composed of the root term [-trache-] which arises from the Greek word [τράχηλος] (trahelos), meaning “neck”, and the suffix [-ectomy] meaning “removal of”. The word [trachelectomy] then means “removal of the neck”.
Another way to refer to this procedure is [cervicectomy], where the root term [-cervic-] arises fron the Latin term [cervix], also meaning neck.
The procedure refers to the removal of the neck or cervix of the uterus. It can be performed as a procedure where the cervix is removed leaving the body of the uterus or [uterus proper] in place. This is done is younger females where there is a cervical cancer, but there is still the possibility of attaining pregnancy. The procedure carries a higher chance of miscarriage and the baby must be delivered via a Cesarean section.
A second reason to remove the cervix of the uterus is as a secondary procedure, after the uterus proper has been removed as part of a supracervical hysterectomy and the cervix, left behind, shows signs of cancer.
Medical terminology note: Trachelectomy and cervicectomy… why are there two terms for the same procedure? That is actually quite common in medical terminology, where you have words having the same meaning that arise from Latin and Greek. In fact, there are cases where there are more than two terms for the same organ or procedure, and let’s not count the vernacular terms on top! This makes medical terminology and interesting and fascinating topic. I would suggest that you click around the links for this article, you will find some interesting information. Dr. Miranda