What is "laryngotomy"

Laryngotomy \Lar`yn*got"o*my\, n. [Gr. (?); (?), (?), the larynx + te`mnein to cut: cf. F. laryngotomie.] (Surg.) The operation of cutting into the larynx, from the outside of the neck, for assisting respiration when obstructed, or for removing foreign bodies.

n. (context surgery English) The surgical operation of cutting into the larynx.