What does the suffix "-ectomy" refer to?

The suffix "-ectomy" specifically signifies surgical removal in medical terminology. It is derived from the Greek word "ektome," which means "a cutting out." This suffix is commonly used in various surgical terms to indicate the excision of a specific organ or tissue. For example, a "appendectomy" refers to the surgical removal of the appendix, while a "hysterectomy" indicates the removal of the uterus. Understanding this suffix is crucial for grasping the nature of numerous surgical procedures, making it a vital component of medical vocabulary.