vitrectomy

noun

vit·​rec·​to·​my və-ˈtrek-tə-mē How to pronounce vitrectomy (audio)
plural vitrectomies
: surgical removal of all or part of the vitreous humor

Examples of vitrectomy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The surgery, called a pars plana vitrectomy with air tamponade, is commonly performed to fix retina tears or detachments by replacing part of the vitreous fluid inside the eye with air, thereby allowing the eye to maintain its shape in your skull after a portion has been removed. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 21 Jan. 2025 In vitrectomy, the surgeon removes the vitreous, clear gel from the eye and replaces it with a gas or oil bubble to help push the retina back in place. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2023 The implantation would occur during a vitrectomy when the natural eye fluid is replaced with a synthetic material. Irene Wright, Dallas News, 15 June 2022

Word History

Etymology

vitreous humor + -ectomy

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vitrectomy was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near vitrectomy

Cite this Entry

“Vitrectomy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vitrectomy. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

vitrectomy

noun
vit·​rec·​to·​my və-ˈtrek-tə-mē How to pronounce vitrectomy (audio)
plural vitrectomies
: surgical removal of all or part of the vitreous body
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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