Which suffix signifies surgical removal?

The suffix that signifies surgical removal is "ectomy." This term is derived from the Greek word "ektomē," meaning "to cut out." In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe the surgical excision or removal of a specific organ or tissue. For example, a tonsillectomy refers to the surgical removal of the tonsils, and an appendectomy refers to the removal of the appendix. This suffix is a critical component in the naming of various surgical procedures, clearly indicating that the procedure involves cutting away or excising a part of the body.

The other options represent different concepts. "Oma" typically denotes a tumor or mass, which is unrelated to the act of removal. "Itis" refers to inflammation, indicating a condition rather than a surgical procedure. "Plasty" is a term used for surgical repair or reconstruction, not removal. Understanding these suffixes is essential for interpreting medical terms correctly and effectively collaborating in a healthcare environment.