The suffix "-pexy" in medical terms generally indicates what type of procedure?

The suffix "-pexy" is derived from the Greek word "pexis," which means to fix or to fasten. In medical terminology, this suffix is used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the fixation or stabilization of an organ or tissue. For instance, in the term "hysteropexy," the suffix indicates that the uterus is being surgically fixed in place.

Surgical fixation is a critical procedure in various medical contexts, often employed to address conditions where an organ may be prolapsed or needs support to maintain its proper position within the body. By understanding that "-pexy" indicates a procedure aimed at securing or anchoring an anatomical structure, it becomes clearer how this term is applied in clinical settings.