Which suffix means removal of?

• A. -algia
• B. -ostomy
• C. -ology
• D. -ectomy

Answer: (D)

The suffix that signals removal of a body part is -ectomy. It denotes surgical excision, so terms like appendectomy, hysterectomy, and cholecystectomy all mean the removal of the appendix, uterus, and gallbladder, respectively. The other endings have different meanings: -ostomy means creating an opening to the outside (for example, a colostomy), -algia means pain (neuralgia), and -ology means the study of something (cardiology). So, for removal, -ectomy is the correct suffix.