AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

What suffix indicates a surgical puncture made to remove fluid?

1. -ectomy

2. -ostomy

3. -centesis

4. -otomy

The correct answer is: -centesis

The suffix that signifies a surgical puncture made to remove fluid is commonly recognized as -centesis. This term is derived from the Greek word "kentesis," which means "to puncture." In medical terminology, -centesis is used to denote procedures where a needle is inserted into a body cavity to either withdraw fluid or perform therapeutic treatment. For example, amniocentesis involves the puncture of the amniotic sac to obtain amniotic fluid for testing. In contrast, other suffixes represent different types of surgical procedures. For instance, -ectomy denotes the surgical removal of a structure or tissue, such as in appendectomy (removal of the appendix). The suffix -ostomy refers to the creation of an opening, often involving the establishment of a new passage for bodily waste (colostomy, for example). Lastly, -otomy indicates an incision into an organ or structure, which is often performed to allow access for further treatment or examination, such as in laparotomy. Each of these suffixes serves a distinct purpose in surgical nomenclature, with -centesis specifically focused on the act of puncturing to extract fluid.