What is the meaning of the suffix "-rrhaphy"?

The suffix "-rrhaphy" is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the surgical procedure of suturing or stitching together tissues, particularly in reference to closing a wound or a surgical incision. This term is derived from the Greek word "rhaphē," which means "suture."

When this suffix is added to a root word, it indicates that a procedure involving suturing is taking place. For example, "herniorrhaphy" refers to the surgical repair of a hernia using sutures. This is important in various medical fields, particularly in surgeries where tissue integrity must be restored following an operation or injury.

In contrast, the other options represent different processes in medicine: visual examination pertains to diagnostic procedures, discharge refers to the release of substances such as fluids, and involuntary muscle contraction involves the action of muscles that operate without conscious control. Thus, the focus on suturing in the correct answer distinctly aligns with the literal meaning of "-rrhaphy," making it the accurate choice.