What suffix indicates "to make a mouth"?

Prepare for the Certified Therapeutic Shoe Fitter Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get exam ready!

The suffix that indicates "to make an opening" or "to create a mouth" is associated with the term "ostomy." In medical terminology, "-ostomy" refers to a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening from an internal organ to the outside of the body, which can relate to creating a mouth-like structure for various purposes, such as in gastrointestinal surgeries.

For instance, a colostomy involves creating an opening for the colon to allow waste to exit the body, functioning much like a mouth would allow for food intake. The concept of making an opening is central to the definition of "-ostomy," distinguishing it from other suffixes that represent different procedures or concepts in medical terminology. Understanding this helps in recognizing not just the term itself but also its application in clinical settings and how it relates to patient care.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy