What does the suffix -ostomy denote?

• A. new opening (created surgically)
• B. incision; cut into
• C. crushing
• D. study of

Answer: (A)

Creating a new opening to the body’s exterior (a stoma) is what the suffix -ostomy signals. It names procedures that surgically form an opening to drain or passage this way, as in colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy. The opening is intentionally created and remains to allow passage of waste or secretions. This differs from other suffixes: -otomy means cutting into or making an incision, -tripsy (or crushing) refers to breaking apart tissue, and -ology means the study of something. So -ostomy is the best match for a surgically created new opening.