How Do You Spell COSTOCHONDRAL?

1. Costochondral refers to the connection or pertaining to the junction between the rib and the cartilage that connects it to the sternum. The term combines the words "costo," which means rib, and "chondral," which refers to cartilage. The costochondral junction is an important structure in the human body as it provides stability and flexibility to the ribcage while allowing for the expansion and contraction of the thoracic cavity during respiration.

   Costochondral can also be used to describe a specific surgical procedure called costochondral grafting. This procedure involves removing a section of cartilage from a rib and using it to repair or reconstruct other structures, such as the nose or ear. This technique utilizes the unique properties of costochondral cartilage, which is abundant, flexible, and easily accessible, making it suitable for various reconstructive surgeries.

   In medical contexts, costochondral may be used to describe conditions or disorders affecting the costochondral region, such as costochondritis. Costochondritis refers to the inflammation of the costochondral joint which can cause localized chest pain and discomfort. This condition is commonly characterized by tenderness, swelling, and increased pain with movement or deep breathing.

   Overall, the term costochondral is primarily used in anatomy, surgery, and medical fields to describe structures, procedures, and conditions related to the junction between the ribs and their associated cartilage.

2. Relating to the costal cartilages.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for COSTOCHONDRAL

The word "costochondral" is derived from two root words: "costo-" and "chondro-".

1. The root word "costo-" is derived from the Latin word "costa" which means "rib". This root is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to anything related to the ribs.

2. The root word "chondro-" is derived from the Greek word "chondros" which means "cartilage". This root word is used to refer to anything related to cartilage in medical terminology.

Therefore, the term "costochondral" combines these two roots to refer to something involving the cartilage of the ribs, commonly used in medical contexts to describe the junction between the ribs and their cartilage.