Cheirourgikí

Cheirourgikí, or χειρουργική in Modern Greek, is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, injuries, and deformities through operative procedures. It encompasses planning, execution of surgical techniques, and postoperative care, as well as ongoing evaluation of outcomes. The field includes a wide range of subspecialties that focus on specific organ systems or patient groups.

Etymology and nomenclature trace the term to the Greek kheir ("hand") and ergon ("work"), with the suffix -ikí indicating a field of study. The word reflects the historical emphasis on manual skill in operative care. In many languages, related terms for surgery share this root, and the title for a practitioner, such as a surgeon, is derived from the same origin.

Scope and technique have expanded from traditional open operations to include minimally invasive and image-guided methods. Subspecialties commonly grouped under cheirourgikí include general surgery, orthopedic, neurosurgery, cardiovascular, plastic and reconstructive, urological, ENT (otorhinolaryngology), pediatric, and thoracic surgery, among others. Advances such as laparoscopy, endoscopy, robotic-assisted procedures, and interventional techniques have broadened indications and shortened recovery times in many areas.

History highlights the evolution from ancient manual procedures to modern science. Early Greek and Roman texts, medieval Islamic scholars like Abu al-Qasim al-Zahrawi, and later developments in anesthesia, antisepsis, and aseptic technique shaped the field. The 20th and 21st centuries brought specialization, standardized training, and innovations in imaging, perioperative care, and rapid-transit techniques that define contemporary cheirourgikí.