What does the suffix -ectomy refer to in medical terminology?

In medical terminology, the suffix -ectomy is derived from the Greek word "ektome," which means to cut out or remove. Therefore, it specifically indicates a surgical procedure involving the removal of a specific part of the body. For instance, an appendectomy refers to the surgical removal of the appendix. This term clearly signifies that something has been excised or removed rather than just repaired or punctured, which are indicated by other suffixes. Understanding this suffix is crucial for medical coders and billers, as they must accurately interpret and code medical procedures based on terms used in documentation.