curette

[ kyoo-ret ]

noun

1. a scoop-shaped surgical instrument for removing tissue from body cavities, as the uterus.

verb (used with object)

, cu·ret·ted, cu·ret·ting.

1. to scrape with a curette.

curette

/ kjʊəˈrɛt /

noun

1. a surgical instrument for removing dead tissue, growths, etc, from the walls of certain body cavities

verb

1. tr to scrape or clean with such an instrument

Word History and Origins

Origin of curette¹

First recorded in 1745–55; from French, equivalent to cur(er) “to cleanse” + -ette feminine noun suffix; -ette, cure

Word History and Origins

Origin of curette¹

C18: from French, from curer to heal, make clean; see cure

Example Sentences

The curettes can scrape a fraction of a millimeter at a time.

From Popular-Science

If a flushing curette has been used, this of course has already been done.

From Project Gutenberg

Fragments removed by the curette are subjected to microscopical examination for diagnostic purposes.

From Project Gutenberg

The curette is passed up to the top of the fundus uteri with its cutting edge directed to the posterior wall.

From Project Gutenberg

The cervix is first dilated up to a suitable degree for the passage of the curette; up to No. 12 Hegar is usually sufficient.

From Project Gutenberg

As a preliminary to the use of the curette, dilatation up to No. 12 Hegar is necessary.

From Project Gutenberg