Using medical terminology rules, what is the most exact term for a surgical incision into the chest wall?
A) Open heart surgery
B) Tracheostomy
C) Pneumonectomy
D) Thoracotomy

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "surgical incision into the chest wall" refers specifically to a thoracotomy. While open heart surgery may involve a thoracotomy, it is not the most exact term as open heart surgery can involve other incisions as well. Tracheostomy refers to an incision in the trachea for the placement of a breathing tube, and pneumonectomy refers to the removal of a lung, neither of which necessarily involve an incision into the chest wall itself.

Using Medical Terminology Rules, What Is the Most Exact Term