Combining Vowels
* What they are: Combining vowels are short, connecting vowels (usually "o" or "i") that are used to link a root word to a suffix.
* Why they're important: They help make the word easier to pronounce and maintain a consistent rhythm in medical terms.
When to Use Combining Vowels
You need a combining vowel when:
1. The root word ends in a consonant and the suffix begins with a consonant.
* Example: "cardi" (heart) + "itis" (inflammation) = "cardioitis" (inflammation of the heart)
2. The root word ends in a consonant and the suffix begins with a vowel.
* Example: "arthr" (joint) + "ectomy" (surgical removal) = "arthroectomy" (surgical removal of a joint)
When you DON'T need a combining vowel:
* The root word ends in a vowel and the suffix begins with a consonant.
* Example: "oste" (bone) + "plasia" (formation) = "osteoplasia" (formation of bone)
* The root word ends in a vowel and the suffix begins with a vowel.
* Example: "enter" (intestine) + "itis" (inflammation) = "enteritis" (inflammation of the intestine)
Important Note: There are exceptions to these rules, so it's always helpful to consult a medical dictionary or terminology guide.