Which suffix corresponds to rupture?

• A. -rrhexis
• B. -rrhage
• C. -rrhea
• D. -rrhaphy

Answer: (A)

Rupture is conveyed by the suffix -rrhexis, which comes from a Greek root meaning tearing or bursting. This suffix is used in medical terms to describe the act of breaking apart or rupturing a structure, such as amniorrhexis (rupture of the amnion) or other structures that tear. The other suffixes have distinct meanings: -rrhage denotes a bursting forth or bleeding (hemorrhage), -rrhea indicates flow or discharge, and -rrhaphy means suturing or repairing. So -rrhexis best fits the concept of rupture.