The suffix '-rrhexis' is defined as what?

The suffix '-rrhexis' is defined as rupture, which refers to the breaking open or tearing of a structure. In medical terminology, this suffix is often used to describe conditions in which tissues or organs experience a rupture, such as in cases of aneurysms or organ injuries. Understanding this term is helpful, especially in oncology, where the integrity of tissue structure is vital for diagnosis and treatment planning.

In contrast, dilation refers to the expansion or enlargement of a structure, inflammation indicates a response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain, while narrowing describes a decrease in the diameter of a passage or vessel, which is the opposite of rupture. Thus, recognizing the specific meanings of these suffixes is essential for accurate communication in medical settings.