What does the suffix "-ectomy" refer to?

The suffix "-ectomy" is used in medical terminology to denote the surgical removal of a specific body part or tissue. This term is commonly found in various surgical procedures, such as appendectomy (removal of the appendix), tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils), and hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). The root of the word usually refers to the specific organ or part being removed, while "-ectomy" signifies the action of cutting out. Understanding this suffix is crucial in recognizing and comprehending various medical conditions and treatments, especially in surgery-related contexts.