In medical terminology, the prefix "hemi-" means one half. It's derived from the Greek word "hemisus," signifying half and is equivalent to the Latin "semi-."
This prefix is used to describe conditions affecting one side of the body or a portion of an organ or structure. Here are some common medical terms using "hemi-":
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Hemiparesis: Weakness on one side of the body.
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Hemiplegia: Paralysis on one side of the body. This is a more severe condition than hemiparesis.
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Hemithorax: One half of the chest.
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Hemicolectomy: Surgical removal of one half of the colon.
In essence, when you see "hemi-" in a medical term, it indicates that the condition, procedure, or structure involves only one half of something.
