Final answer:
The suffix -stomy in medicine indicates a surgical procedure that involves creating an artificial opening.
Step-by-step explanation:
In medicine, the suffix -stomy indicates a surgical procedure that involves creating an artificial opening. For example, an ileostomy is a surgical procedure where the distal ileum is brought through the abdominal wall to create an opening for watery chyme to be collected in a bag-like adhesive appliance. Another example is a colostomy, where a portion of the colon is brought through the abdominal wall to create a stoma for the elimination of feces. These surgical procedures are often performed to treat certain digestive system conditions or to redirect the flow of bodily fluids.