Med. [mod. f. Gr. βδέλλα leech + -τομία a cutting.] The name given to the practice of cutting leeches to empty them of blood while they still continue to suck.
1868. Daily News, 30 July, 3/2. When the little blood-sucker has taken his fill and is about to release his bite, he is tapped; a small incision is made in his side that serves as an outlet for the blood, and he goes on sucking…. Bdellatomy is the name given to the practice.
