What does the suffix '-ectomy' mean?

The suffix '-ectomy' signifies the act of surgical removal. In medical terminology, it is commonly used to describe the removal of specific organs or tissues from the body. For instance, a 'appendectomy' refers to the surgical removal of the appendix. Understanding this suffix is important in the context of various medical procedures, as it provides insight into the nature of the surgical intervention being performed.

The other choices represent different surgical actions but do not align with the definition of '-ectomy'. 'Repair' refers to surgical correction of a defect; 'creation of an opening' describes procedures like 'colostomy'; and 'fragmentation' implies breaking something into parts, which is not accurately represented by the suffix '-ectomy'. Thus, recognizing the meaning of '-ectomy' as denoting removal is crucial for interpreting medical terminology correctly.