American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What is the meaning of the suffix -desis?

1. Excision, surgical removal

2. Binding, fusion

3. Surgical repair

4. Instrument for incising

The correct answer is: Binding, fusion

The suffix -desis originates from the Greek word meaning "binding" or "to bind." In medical terminology, it is commonly used to refer to surgical procedures that involve the fusion or binding of two structures, such as bones or joints. For example, in procedures like arthrodesis, the goal is to stabilize a joint by fusing the bones together, thereby eliminating movement at that joint. This is often performed to alleviate pain or to treat conditions such as severe arthritis. The other options, while related to surgical procedures, do not represent the specific meaning conveyed by the suffix -desis. Excision or surgical removal pertains to procedures that involve cutting away tissue, whereas surgical repair indicates a restoration process without necessarily involving fusion. Instruments for incising refer to the tools used to make cuts or incisions but do not encompass the concept of binding or fusion that -desis signifies. Hence, "binding, fusion" accurately captures the essence of this suffix in a medical context.