What does the suffix "-graphy" denote in a medical term?

The suffix "-graphy" is used in medical terminology to denote the act of recording or producing images of the internal structures of the body. This is commonly seen in procedures such as radiography, where X-rays are used to create images, and angiography, which involves imaging blood vessels.

The root of the term "-graphy" comes from the Greek word "graphia," meaning "to write" or "to record." When this suffix is attached to a root word, it signifies a process that results in the recording or creation of a visual representation, whether it involves imaging, mapping, or documenting a particular anatomy.

Understanding this helps clarify how medical professionals can communicate specific procedures and studies involving imaging techniques effectively. The other options presented do not accurately capture the meaning conveyed by "-graphy," highlighting the unique nature of this suffix in the medical context.