symphyseotome (simfizeotom)

[ IMG:content-2683.png:[ocr errors] In surg., symphysis pubis. IMG:content-2684.png:[blocks in formation] such union or connection. Symphysis usually constitutes an immovable joint, and may be so intimate that all trace of original separatene of the parts is lost. These two conditions are illustrated in the human body in the symphysis of the pubic bones and of the two halves of the lower jaw respectively; but in many animals symphyses remain freely movable, as in the two halves of the lower jaw of serpents. The term is chiefly restricted to the growing together or close apposition of two halves of a bilaterally symmetrical bone, or of a bone with its fellow of the opposite side - other terms, as kylosis, synostosis, synchondrosis, and suture, being ap plied in other cases. See cuts under in nomina tum and pelvis. (b) Some point or line of union between two parts; a commi ure; a chiasm: as, the symphysis of the optic nerves. (c) Attachment of one part to another; a growing together; insertion or gomphosis with union: as, the symphysis of teeth with the jaw. See acro sympiezometer. Som pro dont it a tea together of parts so as to close a natural pa age; atresia.-2. In bot., a coalescence or growing together of similar parts. - Iliac, ischiatic, pubic symphysis. See the adjectives. - Mental symphysis, symphysis mandibulæ, symphysis ment i, union or apposition lower jaw-bone; the midline of the chin in man, the gonys or gonydeal line of a bird, etc. - Symphysis pubis, the pubic symphysis. anite and erythrite.