symphysio-also -eo-(after Fr.-éo-, from stem συµϕυσε- of Gr. σύµϕυσις), combining form of next, in the foll. surgical terms. symphysiorrhaphy|ˌsɪmfɪzɪˈɒrəfɪ|, suture of a divided symphysis (Dorland Med.Dict. 1901). symphysiotome|-ˈfɪzɪəʊtəʊm|[Gr. -τοµος cutting], a knife used in symphysiotomy (Knight Dict.Mech. 1875). symphysiˈotomist, an advocate of symphysiotomy. symphysiotomy|ˌsɪmfɪzɪˈɒtəmɪ|[Gr. -τοµία cutting], the operation of cutting through the symphysis pubis to facilitate delivery.1846F. Brittan tr.Malgaigne's Man. Oper. Surg. 574 Symphysiotomy. There are two proceedings; one by ordinary, and the other by subcutaneous, incision.1888Buck's Handbk.Med.Sci. VI. 700/2 The medical profession became divided into Symphysiotomists and Cæsareanists, each advocating the one plan of delivery to the disparaging of the other.1893Brit.Med.Jrnl. 29 Apr. 915/2 The zeal with which several former advocates of Cæsarean section..have taken up symphysiotomy.