Z is for...

ZIELKE INSTRUMENTATION
A method of fixation.

Y is for...

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X is for...

XENOGRAFT
A graft derived from one species for use in another species.

X-RAY
The ionizing electromagnetic radiation emitted from a highly evacuated tube, resulting from the excitation of the inner orbital electrons by the bombardment of the target anode with a stream of electrons from a heated cathode. A radiograph.

W is for...

WEDGING
Deformity of vertebral body, caused by trauma or gradual collapse, resulting in wedgeshaped vertebra; can also occur congenitally.

WERTHEIM BOHLMAN
For occipital cervical fusion; use of iliac crest graft and wire fixation from occiput to C-2.

WHIPLASH
Popular term for hyperextension-hyperflexion.

WHITECLOUD and LAROCCA
Anterior technique for cervical spine fusion using fibular graft.

WILTSE
A bilateral lateral spine fusion for spondylolisthesis.

WILTSE PLATE
Screw plate device for posterior spinal stabilization.

WINTER
For hemivertebra deformity; anterior and posterior approach with stabilization. Also a procedure for correction of congenital kyphosis, by using an anterior approach and strut bone grafts.

WIRE
Metal thread available in various diameters and various degrees of stiffness and is generally used in surgery to transfix fractured bone.

WISCONSIN (DRUMMOND) INTERSPINOUS SEGMENTAL SPINAL
Series of wires, rods, and buttons for multisegmental spine stabilization.

V is for...

VAGUS NERVE
The tenth cranial nerve, which is a mixed nerve that has both motor and sensory function. The long nerve in the anterior neck traveling with the carotid artery; responsible for many organ functions in the chest and abdomen.

VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION (VNS)
Therapy for epilepsy which applies small electrical pulses to the vagus nerve in the neck which regulates internal organs. This therapy is used in patients suffering from partial epilepsy who have failed traditional drug therapy.

VALVE
Device placed in a shunt system to regulate the rate and direction of CSF flow.

VASCULAR
Relating to or containing blood vessels.

VASOCONSTRICTION
A decrease in the diameter of blood vessels.

VASODILATATION
An increase in the diameter of blood vessels.

VASOPRESSIN
A hormone secreted by the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary which raises blood pressure and increases reabsorption of water by the kidneys.

VASOPRESSOR
An agent which constricts the arteries and raises blood pressure.

VASOSPASM
Spasm of blood vessels, decreasing their diameter.

VENTRICLE
The cavities or chambers within the brain which contain the cerebrospinal fluid. There are two lateral ventricles and midline third and fourth ventricles.

VENTRICULAR DRAINAGE
Insertion of a small tube into the ventricles to drain cerebrospinal fluid, usually when pressure is increased.

VENTRICULITIS
Inflammation and/or infection of the ventricles.

VENTRICULOGRAM
An x-ray study of the ventricles.

VENTRICULOSTOMY
An opening into the ventricles of the brain, such as by inserting a small, thin, hollow catheter.

VERMIS
Middle part of the cerebellum between the two hemispheres.

VERMONT (KRAG)
Posteriorly placed internal fixation device.

VERTEBRA
One of the 33 bones of the spinal column. A cervical, thoracic, or lumbar vertebra has a cylindrically-shaped bony anteriorly and a neural arch posteriorly (composed primarily of the laminae and pedicles as well as the other structures in the posterior aspect of the vertebra) that protects the spinal cord. The plural of vertebra is vertebrae.

VERTEBRAL BODY
From a lateral view, it is the main rectangular portion of the spine; from an overview, oval.

VERTIGO
An abnormal sensation of rotation or movement of one's self, or the environment.

U is for...

ULNA
The medial and the larger of the two bones of the forearm.

ULTRASOUND
The use of high-frequency sound to create images of internal body structures.

U.S. FOOD and DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA)
Government agency that regulates all medical devices and drugs.

T is for...

TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT SYNDROME
Complex of symptoms often seen in cervical sprain conditions. Symptoms include clicking in the jaw on opening and closing the mouth, soreness in the jaw, headaches, buzzing sounds, changes in hearing, stiffness in the neck and shoulders, dizziness, and swallowing disorders.

TENDON
The fibrous band of tissue that connects muscle to bone. It is mainly composed of collagen.

TENDONITIS
Inflammation of a tendon.

TENSION
The act of stretching. The condition of being stretched or tense, or a stretching or pulling force.

TENTORIUM CEREBELLI
The process of the dura matter between the cerebrum and cerebellum supporting the occipital lobes.

TERATOMA
Tumor or growth made up of several different types of tissue (fat, bone, muscle, skin).

TEXAS SCOTTISH RITE HOSPITAL
TSRH® System - Instrumentation used anteriorly and posteriorly.

THALAMUS
Brain cells which lie in the upper part of the brainstem.

THIRD PARTY PAYOR
The source of reimbursement or payment of charges for medical services when the patient does not make direct payment: i.e., payments made by insurance companies, government agencies or employers. The patient and the doctor represent the two other parties in third party pay arrangements.

THORACIC
The chest level region of the spine that is located between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae. It consists of 12 vertebrae which serve as attachment points for ribs.

THORACIC CURVE
A spinal curvature with its apex between the second and eleventh thoracic vertebrae.

THORACIC OUTLET SYNDROME
Mechanical problem related to the exit of arteries and nerves at the base of the neck leading down the arm, and can also involve the vein bringing blood back from the arm.

THORACOLUMBAR CURVE
A spinal curve with its apex at the first lumbar or twelfth thoracic curve.

THORACOPLASTY
The surgical removal (resection) of rib segments.

THORAX
The chest or rib cage; also refers to the space containing the lungs and heart. There are 12 vertebral segments and ribs; the lower two are called floating ribs.

THROMBUS
A blood clot attached to the wall of an artery.

THYROID CARTILAGE
Widening expanses of cartilage above the trachea, the top marks the level of C-4, the bottom C-5.

THYROID GLAND
Near the "Adam's apple;" responsible for secretion of hormone that is involved in regulation of the rate of metabolism.

TIC DOULOUREUX
(See trigeminal neuralgia).

TISSUE
A collection of similar cells and the intercellular substances surrounding them.

TITANIUM
A metallic element used to make surgical implants.

TORTICOLLIS
A contraction, often spasmodic, of the muscles of the neck, chiefly those supplied by the spinal accessory nerve; the head is drawn to one side and usually rotated so that the chin points to the other side.

TOXICOLOGY
The study of the toxic or harmful effects of substances on the body.

TRACHEA
The windpipe.

TRACTION
The act of drawing or pulling, as by an elastic or spring force. A pulling or dragging force exerted on a limb in a distal direction.

TRACTION SPUR
Bony excrescence appearing on the anterolateral surface of the vertebral body near but not at the body margin that arises as a result of disc degeneration.

TRACTOTOMY
Surgical section of a fiber tract of the central nervous system.

TRANQUILIZER
A drug that promotes tranquility by calming, soothing, quieting, or pacifying without sedating or depressant effects.

TRANSCUTANEOUS ELECTRICAL NERVE STIMULATION (TENS)
The stimulation of a nerve by passing electrical currents through the skin.

TRANSFORAMINAL LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSION (TLIF)
An operation where the lumbar spine is approached through an incision in the back. A portion of bone and disc are removed from the spine and replaced with an implant that is inserted into the disc space.

TRANSITIONAL VERTEBRA
Vertebra whose structure features some of the characteristics of the two adjacent vertebra. A common example is the fifth lumbar vertebra that has partial sacral components.

TRANSPLANT
The implantation of bone tissue, as in grafting, from one part of the body to another. Transplant also refers to the transfer of an organ such as a kidney or heart from one individual to another.

TRANSSPHENOIDAL APPROACH
Operative method of reaching the pituitary gland or skull base traversing the nose and sinuses.

TRANSVERSE
Crosswise; lying across the long axis of the body or of a part.

TRANSVERSE PROCESS
Bony process arising from midportion of the spinal ring just posterior to the pedicle and pars interarticulars.

TRAUMATIC
Results from fracture in other areas of the bony hook than in pars interarticularis.

TRIANGLES
For surgical approaches and other considerations, the anterior half of the neck is divided into triangles- anterior, digastric, posterior, submental, and carotid.

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA
Paroxysmal pain in the face. Pain may be so severe that it causes an involuntary grimace or "tic". (Tic Douloureux).

TSULI
For severe cervical spondylosis; an expansive, multiple laminectomy.

TUMOR
Any swelling or tumefaction.

TWELFTH CRANIAL NERVES
See other nerves.

S is for...

SACCULAR ANEURYSM
A balloon-like outpouching of a vessel (the more common type of aneurysm).

SACRAL
Five fused segments of the lower spine, below the end of the spinal column, that connect to the pelvis and have four formina on each side.

SACRAL AGENESIS
Absence, failure of formation, or imperfect development of the lower portions of the spinal column and pelvis.

SACRAL ALA
Lateral portions of the sacral bone.

SACRAL CYST
Abnormality in the spinal fluid sac in the sacrum.

SACRALGIA
Pain in the sacrum.

SACRALIZATION
Fusion of L-5 to the first segment of the sacrum, so that the sacrum consists of six segments; with this abnormality, it is called BERTOLOTTI syndrome.

SACRALIZED TRANSVERSE PROCES
One or both of the lumbar spinous transverse processes abnormally joining with the sacrum; sacralization.

SACRODYNIA
Pain perceived to be in the area of the sacrum but may originate elsewhere; referred pain.

SACROILIITIS
Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint. A very painful, often one-sided sacral area pain that follows delivery, is not due to sepsis, and will subside gradually and completely; acute postpardum sacroilitis.

SACRUM
The sacrum consists of five vertebrae, which have fused together to form a single bone mass called the sacrum. The sacrum and pelvis (ilium) connect through the sacroiliac joints. The bottom of the spine, the coccygeal region, consists of four vertebrae, which, like the sacrum, have all fused together to form the coccyx or tailbone.

SAGITTAL
Longitudinal.

SCALENUS
The deep lateral muscles of the anterior neck, including anterior scalene m. (scalenus anticus), middle scalene m. (scalenus medius), and posterior scalene m. (scalenus posticus).

SCAPULA
A large triangular flattened bone lying over the ribs, posteriorly on either side.

SCHEUERMANN'S DISEASE
Inflammation of the anterior cartilage of the bodies of the lower thoracic and upper segments, causing pain in some older, growing children. There is more than 5 degrees of wedging of at least three adjacent vertebrae as seen on radiographs.

SCHMORL'S NODES
Developmental change resulting in inferior or superior extension of the intervertebral disc into the vertebral bodies.

SCHOLLNER COSTOPLASTY
For rib deformity or scoliosis; multiple rib partial excisions.

SCIATICA
A lay term indicating pain along the course of a sciatic nerve, especially noted in the back of the thigh and below the knee. Pain radiating down the sciatic nerve into the posterior thigh and leg; can be caused by irritation of a nerve anywhere from the back to the thigh.

SCOLIORACHITIS
Disease of the spine caused by rickets; abnormal bone mineralization.

SCOLIOSIS
Lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine.

SCOTOMA
An area of decreased vision surrounded by an area of less depressed or normal vision.

SCOTT
Use of cross-wire fixation transverse process to inferior pedicle in stabilization of spondylolysis fusion.

SEDDON
Drainage of thoracic spinal abscess through anterolateral approach with partial resection of rib.

SEGMENTAL INSTABILITY
Abnormal response to applied loads characterized by motion in the motor segment beyond normal constraints.

SEPSIS
A state of infection of tissue due to disease-producing bacteria or toxins.

SEPTUM
A thin wall dividing two cavities or masses of softer tissue.

SEQUESTRATION
Displaced material escapes as free fragment(s), which may migrate elsewhere.

SHUNT
A tube or device implanted in the body (usually made of Silastic) to redivert excess CSF away from the brain to another place in the body.

SIMMONS
Use of keystoned-shaped graft in anterior fusion. For cervical spinal kyphosis; a posterior osteotomy.

SKELETON
The rigid framework of bones that gives form to the body, protects and supports the soft organs and tissues, and provides attachments for muscles.

SOUTHWICK
A posterior fusion with wire attaching bone graft to the facet joints.

SPEED (KELLOGG SPEED)
For spondylolisthesis spine fusion and anterior interbody fusion by using tibial cortical graft.

SPETZLER
Approach to anterior C-1 to C-3 by using a transoral approach for fusion following excision of tumor.

SPINA BIFIDA
A congenital fissure or opening (cleft) of the spinal column with hernial protrusion of the meninges (membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, including the arachnoid, dura mater, and pia mater) and sometimes the spinal cord.

SPINAL ACCESSORY NERVE (eleventh cranial)
The nerve from the brainstem that supplies the sternocleidomastoid muscles.

SPINAL CANAL
The bony channel that is formed by the intravertebral foramen of the vertebrae and in which contains the spinal cord and nerve roots. The space between the vertebral body anteriorly and the lamina and spinal process posteriorly.

SPINAL COLUMN
See Spine.

SPINAL CORD
The longitudinal cord of nerve tissue that is enclosed in the spinal canal. It serves not only as a pathway for nervous impulses to and from the brain, but as a center for carrying out and coordinating many reflex actions independently of the brain.

SPINAL DISC
See Disc (Intervertebral).

SPINAL FUSION
Operative method of strengthening and limiting motion of the spinal column. Can be performed with a variety of metal instruments and bone grafts, or bone grafts alone.

SPINAL STENOSIS
General term denoting narrowing of the spinal canal in the lumbar area leading to nerve root compromise; term often used for developmental abnormality that leaves a narrow, bony canal. There are four subgroups of this condition: achondroplastic stenosis, constitutional stenosis, degenerative stenosis, and combined stenosis.

SPINAL THALAMIC TRACT
The main tract of pain to the brain.

SPINE
The flexible bone column extending from the base of the skull to the tailbone. It is made up of 33 bones, known as vertebrae. The first 24 vertebrae are separated by discs known as intervertebral discs, and bound together by ligaments and muscles. Five vertebrae are fused together to form the sacrum and 4 vertebrae are fused together to form the coccyx. The spine is also referred to as the vertebral column, spinal column, or backbone.

SPINOUS PROCESS
The portion of the vertebrae that protrudes posteriorly from the spinal column. The spinous processes create the "bumps" felt on the midline of the back. The most posterior extension of the spine arising from the laminae.

SPONDYLALGIA
Pain in vertebra(e).

SPONDYLARTHRITIS
Arthritis of the spine.

SPONDYLARTHROCACE
Tuberculosis of the spine; spondylocace.

SPONDYLEXARTHROSIS
Dislocation of a vertebra.

SPONDYLITIS
Inflammation of vertebrae, including types such as ankylosing, rheumatoid, traumatic, spondylitis deformans, Kümmell, and Marie-Strümpell d.

SPONDYLIZEMA
Depression or downward displacement of a vertebra, with destruction or softening of one below it.

SPONDYLODYNIA
Pain in vertebra(e).

SPONDYLOEPIPHYSEAL DYSPLASIA
Disorder of growth affecting both the spine and the ends of long bones.

SPONDYLOLISTHESIS
A defect in the construct of bone between the superior and inferior facets with varying degrees of displacement so the vertebra with the defect and the spine above that vertebra are displaced forward in relationship to the vertebrae below. It Is usually due to a developmental defect or the result of a fracture.

SPONDYLOLYSIS
Displacement of one vertebrae over another with fracture of a posterior portion of the vertebra. A defect in the neural arch between the superior and inferior facets of vertebrae without separation at the defect and therefore no displacement of the vertebrae. It may be unilateral or bilateral and is usually due to a developmental defect but may be secondary to a fracture.

SPONDYLOMALACIA
Softening of vertebrae; Kümmell disease.

SPONDYLOPATHY
Any vertebral disorder.

SPONDYLOPYOSIS
Infection in vertebra(e).

SPONDYLOSCHISIS
Congenital fissure (splitting) of vertebral arch.

SPONDYLOSIS
Ankylosis of the vertebra; often applied nonspecifically to any lesion of the spine of a degenerative nature. Bony replacement of ligaments around the disc spaces of the spine, associated with decreased mobility and eventual fusion; marginal osteophyte.

SPONDYLOSYNDESIS
Surgical immobilization or ankylosis by fusion of the vertebral bodies with a short bone graft in cases of tuberculosis of the spine; spondylodesis, Albee procedure.

SPONDYLOTOMY
Incision into a vertebra or vertebral column; rachiotomy.

SPRAIN
An injury to a ligament when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than normal, but without dislocation or fracture.

STAINLESS STEEL
Iron-based metal containing chromium that is highly resistant to stain, rust, and corrosion. Certain grades of stainless steel are commonly used to make surgical implants and instruments.

STEFFEE PLATE
For posterolateral fusion fixation; plate and screw device.

STENOSIS
Reduction in the diameter of the spinal canal due to new bone formation which may result in pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

STEREOTACTIC
Originated from the Greek words stereo meaning three dimensional and tactos meaning touched and relating to stereotaxy.

STEREOTAXY
A precise method of destroying deep-seated brain structures located by use of three dimension coordinates.

STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY
The precise delivery of radiation to a preselected stereotactically localized target.

STERILE
Free from living organisms. Relating to or characterized by sterility.

STERILITY
In general, the incapability of fertilization or reproduction.

STERILIZATION
The method used to render a material free from living organisms. Usual methods include steam under pressure, gas, and ionizing radiation.

STERNOCLEIDOMASTOID
Large externally visible muscle of the anterior neck, enabling the head to turn to either side.

STERNUM
The breast bone; further divided into three segments. manubrium: upperportion, proximal end; sternum: main portion; xiphoid: the dagger-like tip of the sternum, distal end.

STRABISMUS
Deviation of eye movement which prevents the two eyes from moving in a parallel fashion.

STRAIN
To injure by overuse or improper use.

STRAP MUSCLES
A general term applied to the ribbon-like muscles in the anterior neck; they include omohyoid, sternhyoid, sternthyroid, and thyrohyoid.

STRUCTURAL CURVE
A fixed lateral curve of the spinal column.

SUBARACHNOID HEMORRHAGE
Blood in, or bleeding into, the space under the arachnoid membrane, most commonly from trauma or from rupture of an aneurysm.

SUBDURAL HEMATOMA
A collection of blood (clot) trapped under the dura matter, the outermost membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

SUBLUXATION
An incomplete luxation or dislocation; though a relationship is altered, contact between joint surfaces remains.

SUPERIOR
Situated above or directed upward toward the head of an individual

SURGERY
The branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of disease, injury, and deformity by operation or manipulation. The performance or procedures of an operation.

SYNDROME
The aggregate of signs and symptoms associated with any morbid process, and constitution together the picture of the disease.

SYRINGOMYELIA
A fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord. Usually involving upper segments initially and involving the shoulder muscles.

R is for...

RACHIALGIA
Pain in the vertebral column.

RACHICENTESIS
Lumbar puncture for examination of the spinal fluid; rachiocentesis.

RACHIOCAMPSIS
Curvature of the spine.

RACHIOCHYSIS
Effusion of fluid within the vertebral canal.

RACHIOKYPHOSIS
Humpbacked curvature of spine; kyphosis.

RACHIOMYELITIS
Inflammation of the spinal cord.

RACHIOPARALYSIS
Paralysis of the spinal muscles.

RACHIOPATHY
Any disease of the spine.

RACHIOPLEGIA
Spinal paralysis.

RACHIOSCOLIOSIS
Lateral curvature of the spine.

RACHIOTOMY
Incision into a vertebral canal for exploration.

RACHISAGRA
Pain or gout in the spine.

RACHISCHISIS
Abnormal congenital opening of the vertebral column.

RACHITOMY
Surgical or anatomic opening of the vertebral canal.

RADICULECTOMY
Excision of a rootlet or resection of spinal nerve roots.

RADICULOPATHY
Disease of the nerve roots in or near the spinal canal as a result of direct pressure from a disc, or inflammation of the nerve roots due to disc or spinal joint disease.

RADIATION ONCOLOGIST
A medical doctor who has received advanced training in the treatment of persons receiving x-ray treatment for an illness.

RADIATION PHYSICIST
A person having a PhD degree who is trained in the science dealing with the properties, changes and interactions of continous energy.

RADICLE
A rootlet or structure resembling one, a minute veinlet joining with others to form a vein.

RADICULAR
Relating to the radicle.

RADIOLOGIST
A medical doctor who has received specialized training in interpreting x-rays, CTs, MRIs and performing angiography.

RADIOTHERAPY
Treatment of a lesion with radiation.

RADIUS
The lateral and shorter of the two bones of the foreman.

RECOMBINANT HUMAN PROTEINS
proteins developed by isolating a human protein and using recombinant DNA technology to produce genetically engineered proteins that act like natural proteins.

REFERRED PAIN
Sclerotomic in distribution and felt distant from its origin (e.g., bursitis in the shoulder produces pain in the lateral arm, and sciatic-like leg pain can be referred from the lower-back area).

REFLEX
An involuntary reaction in response to a stimulus applied to the periphery and transmitted to the nervous centers in the brain or spinal cord.

RESECTION
The surgical removal of part of a structure, such as bone.

RESORPTION
The removal of bone tissue by normal physiological process or as part of a pathological process such as an infection.

RETROLISTHESIS
Posterior displacement of the vertebra on the one below.

REVERSAL of CERVICAL LORDOSIS
Change in the normal curvature of the cervical spine as seen on lateral radiograph. This is usually a straightening of the normal lordotic curve or an actual reversal
and is most commonly caused by muscle spasm, indicating cervical disc abnormality.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Generalized inflammatory joint disease.

RHIZOTOMY
Division of the roots of the spinal nerves.

RISSER
For scoliosis deformity; particular attention to fusion of facet joints and use of cast stabilization.

ROAF, KIRKALDY-WILLIS, and CATTERO
Drainage of thoracic spinal abcess through dorsolateral approach.

ROBINSON and RILEY
An extensive anterior approach for fusion of C-1 to C-3 or lower.

ROD
In spinal applications, a slender, metal implant which is used to immobilize and align the spine.

ROGER FUSION
Posterior cervical using iliac cortical and cancellous grafts.

ROGOZINSKI
A combined anteroposterior device used in correction of spinal deformities.

ROOT
The primary or beginning point of any part, as of a nerve at its origin from the brainstem or spinal cord.

ROOT SLEEVE FIBROSIS
Scar tissue surrounding a nerve in the spinal canal or neural foramen; epineural fibrosis. If it is within the nerve, it is called intraneural fibrosis.

ROUNDING OF THE CRANIAL BORDER
Relationship of the height to the width of the rounded portion of the superior sacrum.

ROY-CAMILLE
For stabilization between the skull and C-2; posterior bone graft with wire and parallel vertical screw plate fixation from occiput to C-3. Posterior pedicle screw and plate device for spinal stabilization.

RUDIMENTARY RIBS
Nubbins of ribs seen below the level where the last rib normally occurs.

RUPTURED DISC
See Herniated Disc.

Q is for...

QUADRANTANOPIA
Defect in vision or blindness in one fourth of the visual field.

QUADRATUS LUMBORUM
A muscle lateral to the iliopsoas muscle of the spine running from the lower ribs to the ilium.

QUADRIPLEGIA
Paralysis of all four limbs.

P is for...

PAIN
An unpleasant sensation associated with actual or potential tissue damage, and mediated by specific nerve fibers to the brain where its conscious appreciation may be modified by various factors.

PAPILLEDEMA
Swelling of the optic nerve head, can be seen in the back of the retina during eye examination.

PARAPLEGIA
Paralysis of the lower part of the body including the legs.

PARAVERTEBRAL MUSCLE SPASM
Spasm in the muscles on either side of the spinous processes (midline of the back); the term may be used to describe a physical finding or improperly used to define a disease process.

PARIETAL LOBE
The middle portion of each cerebral hemisphere.

PARS INTERARTICULARS
The posterior continuation of the spinal arch from the pedicle; the superior and inferior facets are connected to each other by the pars interarticulars.

PATHOLOGIC
Generalized or localized bone disease is present.

PATHOLOGY
The study of disease states.

PECTORAL (also PECTORALIS)
Relating to the chest.

PEDICLE
The part of each side of the neural arch of a vertebra. It connects the lamina with the vertebral body. The first portion of the posterior spine arising from the vertebral body.

PERIOSTEUM
A fibrous membrane that covers the surface of bone except at the end of the bones where it is covered with cartilage as part of a joint. In children, periosteum is involved in forming new bone and molding the configuration of bone; and in the adult, the periosteum forms new bone secondary to injury or infection.

PERITONEAL CAVITY
Body cavity in which the abdominal organs are situated.

PHRENIC NERVE
Nerve arising from three cervical nerve roots (C-3 to C-5); supplies the diaphragm.

PHYSICAL
Relating to the body, as distinguished from the mind.

PHYSICAL THERAPY
The treatment consisting of exercising specific parts of the body such as the legs, arms, hands or neck, in an effort to strengthen, regain range of motion, relearn movement and/or rehabilitate the musculoskeletal system to improve function.

PHYSIOLOGY
The science of the functioning of living organisms, and of their component systems or parts.

PIRIFORMIS SYNDROME
A clinical diagnosis based on complaints of pain and abnormal sensations in the buttocks region with extension into the hips and posterior thigh as would be seen in sciatica.

PITUITARY
Gland at base of the brain which secretes hormones into the blood stream. Those hormones then regulate other glands including the thyroid, adrenals and gonads. The "Master Gland".

PLATYSMA
Thin outermost muscle layer of the anterior neck.

PLEXITIS
Inflammation of the plexus.

PLEXUS
A network or interjoining of nerves and blood vessels or of lymphatic vessels.

POLYNEURITIS
Inflammation of two or more nerves simultaneously.

PORENCEPHALY
Abnormal cavity within brain tissue, usually resulting from outpouching of a lateral ventricle.

POSTERIOR
The back of the body or situated nearer the back of the body.

POSTERIOR APPROACH
Used for laminectomies and spinal fusions at any level; Hibbs, Wagoner.

POSTERIOR CERVICAL SPINAL FUSION
Spinal fusion done from the back, using the lamina, facets, and spinous processes of the neck.

POSTERIOR NECK MUSCLES
Splenius, spinalis, and semispinalis.

POSTERIOR FOSSA
The internal base of the skull.

POSTERIOR LUMBAR SPINAL FUSION
Spinal fusion done from the back using the lamina, the facets, and spinous processes of the lower back.

POSTERIOR SPINAL FUSION
A fusion of the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions primarily fusing the lamina and sometimes the facet joints, using iliac or other bone graft.

POSTERIOR SPINAL MUSCLE SEGMENTS
Upper and lower posterior serratus m., spinalis m., semispinalis m., and rotators.

POSTEROLATERAL (P/L)
Behind and to one side, specifically to the outer side.

POSTEROLATERAL INTERBODY FUSION (PLIF)
Lumbar spine fusion that involves an interbody fusion accomplished through the posterior approach.

POSTEROLATERAL FUSION
A fusion of both the lamina and transverse process, using the iliac bone for graft, usually in the lower lumbar and first sacral segments.

POST-ICTAL
State following a seizure, often characterized by altered function of the limbs and/or mentation.

POSTURE
The position of the limbs or the carriage of the body as a whole.

POTT'S DISEASE
Tuberculosis of the spine, usually in the lower thoracic segments.

POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS
Instruments which are powered by compressed air or electricity and are used in surgical procedures to cut, drill, or otherwise remove bone and cartilage, as well as to evacuate fluids.

PRE-CLINICAL STUDIES
Tests occurring prior to clinical studies, usually in vitro or in vivo involving animals. The purpose of these studies is to determine the safety and efficacy of the test material.

PREMARKET NOTIFICATION [510(k)]
A regulatory method for gaining clearance from the FDA to market a device. The FDA is petitioned by a company to determine if a particular medical device is "substantially equivalent" to a device which was commercially available prior to May 28, 1976.

PREMARKET APPROVAL (PMA)
A regulatory method for gaining a marketing clearance from the FDA for a Class III medical device. A company submits information to the FDA that documents the safety and effectiveness of the device.

PRONATOR
A muscle which turns a part into the prone position.

PROPRIOCEPTION
Sensation concerning movements of joints and position of the body in space.

PROSTHESIS
An artificial body part such as an artificial leg or arm. The term prosthesis is also used to describe some of the implants used in the body such as a hip or knee replacement device.

PROTRUSION
Displaced nuclear material causes a discrete bulge in the annulus, but no material escapes through the annular fibers.

PROXIMAL
Nearest the center of the body.

PSEUDOTUMOR CEREBRI
Raised intracranial pressure, usually causing only headache and papilledema. No clear underlying structural abnormality.

PSEUDOARTHROSIS (also PSEUDARTHROSIS)
A form of non-union in which there is the formation of a false joint with some cartilage covering the ends of the bones and a cavity containing fluid that resembles a normal joint.

PSEUDOCLAUDUCATION
Increased pain and decreased strength in lower limbs associated with physicial activity. Complaints are similar to those caused by insufficient blood supply to the limb but are caused by diminished blood supply to the nerves in a narrowed spinal canal.

PSOAS ABSCESS
A localized collection of puss surrounded by inflamed tissue of either of two internal muscles of the loin, the psoas minor and major.

PUPIL
The black part of the eye through which light enters; enlarges in dim light and decreases in size in bright light.

PYELONEPHRITIS
Inflammation of the parenchyma of a kidney and the lining of its renal pelvis, especially due to bacterial infection.

PYRAMIDAL TRACT
Carries the voluntary muscle messages from the brain.

O is for...

OCCIPITAL NERVE
Nerve from the back of the neck that supplies motor function and sensation to the forehead; two parts - greater and lesser.

OCCIPUT
The back part of the head. The base of the skull.

OLIGODENDROGLIA
Non-nerve cells, (see glia) forming part of the supporting structure of the central nervous system.

OLIGODENDROGLIOMA
A growth of new cells derived from the oligodendroglia.

OLISTHY
Slipping of bone(s) from normal anatomic site; for example, a slipped disc.

OPHTHALMOPLEGIA
Paralysis of one or more of the eye muscles.

ORTHOPAEDICS (also ORTHOPEDICS)
The medical specialty involved in the preservation and restoration of function of the musculoskeletal system that includes treatment of spinal disorders and peripheral nerve lesions.

ORTHOPAEDIC IMPLANTS
Medical devices used to replace or provide fixation of bone or to replace articulating surfaces of a joint.

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
A physician who treats the musculoskeletal system, extremities, and spine by operation or manipulation.

OSTEOINDUCTIVE
A material with the ability to induce bone to grow.

OSSIFICATION
The process of forming bone in the body.

OSTEOARTHRITIS
Arthritis characterized by erosion of articular cartilage, either primary or secondary to trauma or other conditions, which becomes soft, frayed, and thinned with eburnation of subchondral bone and outgrowths of marginal osteophytes.

OSTEOMA
A benign tumor of bone.

OSTEOMYELITIS
Inflammation of bone due to infection, which may be localized or generalized.

OSTEOPHYTE
A bony outgrowth or protuberance.

OSTEOPOROSIS
A disorder in which bone is abnormally brittle, less dense, and is the result of a number of different diseases and abnormalities.

OTHER NERVES (twelfth cranial)
Transcervical, supraclavicular, posterior rami, facial, greater auricular, and hypoglossal.

OVERTON
A dowel graft that is applied across facet joints.

N is for...

NAFFZIGER SYNDROME
Intervertebral disc disease, cervical rib, or some other disorder causes the scalene muscles to go into spasm, resulting in pressure on the major nerve plexus of the arm causing pain in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand; scalenus anticus syndrome.

NEOPLASM
Any new or abnormal growth, specifically a new growth of tissue in which the growth is uncontrolled.

NERVE
A whitish cordlike structure composed of one or more bundles of myelinated or unlyelinated fibers, or more often mixtures of both coursing outside of the central nervous system, together with connective tissue within the fascicle and around the neurolemma of individual fibers.

NERVE ROOT
The portion of a spinal nerve in close proximity to its origin from the spinal cord.

NEURAL ARCH
The bony arch of the posterior aspect of a vertebra that surrounds the spinal cord, also referred to as the vertebral arch.

NEURALGIA
A paroxysmal pain extending along the course of one or more nerves.

NEURECTOMY
Excision of part of a nerve.

NEURITIS
Inflammation of a nerve; may also be used to denote non-inflammatory nerve lesions of the peripheral nervous system.

NEUROBLASTOMA
Tumor of sympathetic nervous system origin, found mostly in infants and children.

NEUROFIBROMA
A tumor of the peripheral nerves due to an abnormal collection of fibrous and insulating cells.

NEUROFIBROMATOSIS
A familial condition characterized by developmental changes in the nervous system, muscles and skin, marked by numerous tumors affecting these organ system.

NEUROHYPOPHYSIS
The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland.

NEUROLYSIS
Removal of scar or reactive tissue from a nerve or nerve root.

NEUROMA
A tumor or new growth largely made up of nerve fibers and connective tissue.

NEUROMUSCULAR SCOLIOSIS
Scoliosis caused by a muscle or entral nervous system disorder.

NEUROPATHIC PAIN
Pain caused by damage to nerve tissue. It is often felt as a burning or stabbing pain. One example of neuropathic pain is a "pinched nerve."

NEUROPATHY
Any functional or pathologic disturbance in the peripheral nervous system.

NEUROSTIMULATOR
A device for electrical excitation of the central or peripheral nervous system.

NEUROSURGERY
The surgical specialty involved in the treatment of disorders of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

NEWMAN
C-1 to C-2 posterior fusion without fixation.

NOCICEPTIVE PAIN
Pain caused by an injury or disease outside the nervous system. It is often an on-going dull ache or pressure, rather than the sharper, trauma-like pain more characteristic of neuropathic pain. One example of nociceptive pain is arthritis pain.

NON-UNION
Failure of the fragments of a fractured bone to heal or to obtain bony fusion following an arthrodesis.

NUCHAL LIGAMENT
Large posterior midline ligament in the neck from the base of the skull to the seventh cervical vertebra.

NUCLEUS PULPOSUS
The semi-gelatinous tissue in the center of an intervertebral disc. It is surrounded and contained by the annulus fibrosus which prevents this material from protruding outside the disc space.

NURICK SCALE
Classification scale for spinal cord compression due to spondylosis.

NYSTAGMUS
Involuntary rapid movement of the eyes in the horizontal, vertical or rotary planes of the eyeball.

M is for...

MACCARTHY PROCEDURE
For sacral tumor; a method of excision of the sacrum.

MAGERL
Transarticular facet screw fusion for posterior C-1 on C-2 with the use of bilateral screws directed from inferior posterior lateral mass to anterior superior C-1.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE ANGIOGRAPHY (MRA)
A non-invasive study which is conducted in a Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI). The magnetic images are assembled by a computer to provide an image of the arteries in the head and neck. No contrast material is needed, but some patients may experience claustrophobia in the imager.

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)
Diagnostic test that produces three-dimensional images of body structures using powerful magnets and computer technology rather than x-rays.

MALIGNANT
Resistant to treatment; occurring in severe form, and frequently fatal; tending to become worse and leading to an ingravescent course.

MARGINAL OSTEOPHYTES
Excess bone formation at the margin of the vertebral body; spondylosis.

MARIE-STRÜMPELL DISEASE
Inflammation of the spine, occurring as a rheumatoid-type disease in children.

MASSAGE
A method of manipulation of the body by rubbing, pinching, kneading, tapping, etc.

MCAFFEE
Anterior retropharyngeal approach to upper cervical spine; often used for fusion, allowing excision of tumor.

MEDIAN NERVE
The nerve formed from the brachial plexus that supplies muscles in the anterior forearm and thumb, as well as, sensation of the hand. It may be compressed or trapped at the wrist in carpal tunnel syndrome.

MEDIAL
Situated closer to the midline of the body.

MEDICAL DEVICE REPORT (MDR)
The required reporting of medical device complaints involving a patient death, serious injury, or device malfunction.

MEDICATION
The act of medicating. A medical substance, or medicament.

MEDULLA OBLONGATA
The lower portion of the brain stem.

MEDULLOBLASTOMA
Tumor composed of medulloblasts which are cells which develop in the roof of the fourth ventricle (medullary velum).

MENINGES
The three membranes covering the spinal cord and brain termed dura mater, arachnoid mater and pia mater.

MENINGIOMA
A firm, often vascular, tumor arising from the coverings of the brain. Does not recur if totally removed.

MENINGISMUS
Apparent irritation of brain or spinal cord in which symptoms simulate meningitis but in which no actual inflammation of the membranes is present; meningism.

MENINGITIS
An infection or inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Caused by infectious agents such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses.

MENINGOCELE
A protrusion of the coverings of the spinal cord or brain through a defect in the skull or vertebral column. May be congenital or acquired.

MENINGOENCEPHALITIS
An inflammation or infection of the brain and spinal cord and their membranes.

MENINGOENCEPHALOCELE
A protrusion of both the meninges and brain tissue through a skull defect

MENINGOMYELITIS
Inflammation of spinal cord, its enveloping arachnoid and pia mater, and sometimes the dura mater..

MEYER
For C-1 to C-2 instability, posterior fusion using vertical strut grafts and wires.

MODIFIED FRANKEL CLASSIFICATION
Scale for spinal cord damage due to any cause.

MORBIDITY
The frequency of the appearance of complications following a surgical procedure or the other treatment.

MRA
Magnetic Resonance Angiography. A non-invasive study which is conducted in a Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI). The magnetic images are assembled by a computer to provide an image of the arteries in the head and neck. No contrast material is needed, but some patients may experience claustrophobia in the imager.

MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging - Scanning technique for views of the brain or spinal cord. No radiation is involved, but rather pulsed magnetic waves are used to delineate the structures within the brain.

MESENCEPHALIC
Relating to that part of the brain stem known as the mesencephalon.

MINIMAL ACCESS DISCECTOMY
An operation performed on the upper spine to relieve pressure on one or more nerve roots.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE LUMBAR LAMINECTOMY/DISCECTOMY
An operation performed on the lower spine to relieve pressure on one or more nerve roots. The term is derived from the words lumbar (low back), and discectomy (remove a portion of the intervertebral disc).

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY
Surgery requiring small incision(s), usually performed with endoscopic visualization.

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY
Any of a group of hereditary diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of the muscles.

MUSCULATURE
The arrangement of the muscles in a part or in the body as a whole.

MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES
Injuries affecting the muscles.

MYALGIA
Muscular pain.

MYELALGIA
Pain in the spinal cord.

MYELANALOSIS
Wasting of spinal marrow, tabes dorsalis.

MYELAPOPLEXY
Loss of nerve strength caused by some disorder of the spinal cord.

MYELASTHENIA
Loss of nerve strength caused by some disorder of the spinal cord.

MYELATELIA
Imperfect development of the spinal cord.

MYELATROPHY
Atrophy (wasting away) of spinal cord because of lack of nutrition, causing it to dimish in size.

MYELAUXE
Abnormal increase in size of spinal cord.

MYELETEROSIS
Abnormal alteration of the spinal cord.

MYELIN
The fat-like substance which surrounds the axon of nerve fibers and forms an insulating material.

MYELOCELE
Protrusion of the spinal cord in spina bifida. Herniation and protrusion of substance of spinal cord through defect in the bony spinal canal.

MYELOCYSTOCELE
Cystic protrusion of substance of the spinal cord through a defect in the bony spinal canal.

MYELOCYSTOMENINGOCELE
Cystic protrusion of substance of the spinal cord, with meninges, through a defect in the spinal canal.

MYELODYIASTASIS
Separation of the spinal cord.

MYELODYSPLASIA
Defective development of any part of spinal cord.

MYELOENCEPHALITIS
Inflammation of the spinal cord and brain; myelencephalitis.

MYELOGRAM
An x-ray of the spinal canal following injection of a contrast material into the surrounding cerebrospinal fluid spaces.

MYELOGRAPHY
Radiography of the spinal cord and nerve roots after the injection of a contrast medium into the spinal subarachnoid space.

MYELOMALACIA
Softening of the spinal cord.

MYELOMENINGITIS
Inflammation of the spinal cord and meninges (spinal membranes).

MYELOMENINGOCELE
A protrusion of the spinal cord and its coverings through a defect in the vertebral column. Herniation of cord and meninges through a defect in the vertebral column.

MYELONEURITIS
Inflammation of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves.

MYELOPARALYSIS
Spinal paralysis.

MYELOPATHY
Any functional or pathologic disturbance in the spinal cord.

MYELOPHTHISIS
Wasting of the spinal cord; reduction of cell-forming function of bone marrow.

MYELOPLEGIA
Spinal paralysis.

MYELORADICULITIS
Inflammation of spinal cord and nerve roots.

MYELORADICULOPATHY
Disease of spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.

MYELORRHAGIA
Spinal hemorrhage.

MYELOSCELEROSIS
Hardening of the spinal cord.

MYELOSYPHILIS
Syphilis of the spinal cord.

MYELOTOMY
A procedure for severing tracts in the spinal cord.

MYOPATHY
Any disease of muscle.

MYOSITIS
Inflammation of the muscle.

L is or...

LABYRINTH
The internal ear, comprising the semi-circular canals, vestibule and cochlea.

LAMINA
The flattened or arched part of the vertebral arch, forming the roof of the spinal canal. The posterior part of the spinal ring that covers the spinal cord or nerves.

LAMINECTOMY
Excision of one or more laminae of the vertebrae. Removal of the lamina, the bony element covering the posterior portion of the spinal canal.

LAMINOPLASTY
The lamina are hinged laterally opened like a door, and secured in their new position with suture or bone to enlarge the spinal canal.

LAMINOTOMY
An opening made in a lamina. Formation of a hole in the lamina without disrupting the continuity of the entire lamina to approach the intervertebral disc or neural structures.

LAPAROSCOPY
A form of minimally invasive surgery using a type of endoscope known as a laproscope. The technique allows surgeons to perform procedures without making major incisions that can lead to long recovery times.

LASER
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The device that produces a focused beam of light at a defined wavelength that can vaporize tissue. In surgery, lasers can be used to operate on small areas without damaging delicate surrounding tissue.

LATERAL
Situated away from the midline of the body.

LATERAL MASS
The lateral expansion of the spinal ring in the cervical spine, consisting of the facet joints and intervening bone as well as a tunnel through which the vertebral artery travels in the second through fifth cervical vertebra.

LEEDS
For scoliosis, segmental wiring of a contoured square-ended Harrington rod.

LEPTOMENINGES
Two thin layers of fine tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (The pia mater and arachnoid).

LEPTOMENINGITIS
Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

LEPTOMENINGOPATHY
Disease of the arachnoid or pia matter of the brain and spinal cord.

LEUKODYSTROPHY
Disturbance of the white matter of the brain.

LEUKOENCEPHALITIS
An inflammation of the white matter of the brain.

LIGAMENT
A band of flexible, fibrous connective tissue that is attached at the end of a bone near a joint. The main function of a ligament is to attach bones to one another, to provide stability of a joint, and to prevent or limit some joint motion.

LIGAMENTOUS
Relating to or of the form or structure of a ligament.

LIGAMENTUM FLAVUM
A band of yellow elastic tissue that runs between the laminae from the axis to the sacrum; it assists in maintaining or regaining erect position and serves to close in the spaces between the arches.

LIMBUS ANNULARE
A mass of bone situated at the anterospuerior margin of a vertebra. Arises from failure of fusion of the primary and secondary ossification centers.

LINEAR ACCELERATOR
Equipment that precisely delivers a concentrated dose of radiation to a predetermined target using x-rays.

LIPOMA
A benign fatty tumor, usually composed of mature fat cells.

LOCALIO
For sacral tumor; a method for partial excision of the scarum.

LOCALIZATION
Limitation to a definite area. The reference of a sensation to its point of origin.

LONG BEACH PEDICLE SCREW
Posterolateral fusion screw and rod device.

LONGISSIMUS COLLI
Long muscle immediately anterior to the cervical spine.

LONG TRACTS
The nerve fibers that connect the voluntray muscle messages from the brain.

LORDOSCOLIOSIS
Lateral curvature of the spine associated with backward bending of the spine.

LORDOSIS
Curvature of the spine with the convexity forward. Not a disease state, but the normal anterior concavity of the neck or low back.

LOUGHHEED and WHITE
For drainage of lower abdominal abcess; coccygectomy and drainage from space anterior to sacrum.

LUMBAGO
A non-medical term signifying pain in the lumbar region. Archaic term meaning back pain.

LUMBAR
The lower part of the spine between the thoracic region and the sacrum. The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae. The five moveable spinal segments of the lower back and largestof the spinal segments.

LUMBAR CURVE
Curve with apex between the first and the fourth lumbar vertebrae.

LUMBAR DRAIN
A device (usually a long, thin, flexible tube) inserted through the skin into the cerebrospinal fluid space of the lower back; provides a method of draining cerebrospinal fluid.

LUMBARIZATION
Partial or complete formation of a free-moving first sacral segment so that it looks like a lumbar vertebra.

LUMBAR KYPHOSIS
Reverse of the normal curve of the low back.

LUMBAR LORDOSIS
Angle made by lines drawn from the superior surface of the first and fifth lumbar vertebra.

LUMBAR MICRODISCECTOMY
An operation on the lumbar spine performed using a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques.

LUMBOSACRAL CURVE
A lateral curve with its aspect at or between the fifth lumbar vertebra.

LUMBOSACRAL JOINT ANGLE
Angle between the inferior surface of the fifth lumbar vertebra and the top of the sacrum.

LUQUE INSTRUMENTATION
A posterior method of fixation.

LUQUE ISF
For posterolateral fusion fixation; a pedicle screw and plate device.

LUXATION
Dislocation.

K is for...

KANEDA
An anteriorly placed fixation device for spinal deformities.

KINETIC
Relating to motion or movement.

KNODT DISTRACTION ROD
For distraction stabilization of thoracic and lumbar spine.

KOSTUICK-HARRINGTON
Anteriorly placed device for spinal deformity correction.

KYPHECTOMY
For kyphotic deformity in myelodysplasia; excision of kyphotic portion of lumbar spine combined with spinal fixation.

KYPHOSCOLIOSIS
Lateral curvature of the spine associated with forward inclination of the spine.

KYPHOSIS
An abnormal increase in the normal kyphotic curvature of the thoracic spine. Round shoulder deformity, humpback, dorsal kyphotic curvature; may refer to any forward-bending area or deformity of the spine.

J is for...

JACOBS LOCKING HOOK
Thick, threaded rods for fixation of various spinal deformities.

JARCHO-LEVIN SYNDROME
Extensive defects of the spine with associated defects in the ribs leading to a small, stiff thorax and pulmonary compromise.

JOINT
The junction or articulation of two or more bones that permits varying degrees of motion between the bones.

JOINTS of LUSCHKA (uncovertebral joints)
Unique to the cervical spine, these jointlike structures are formed by the apposition of posterolateral portions of adjacent vertebral bodies; forms the anterior portion of the canal where nerves pass through.

JUGULAR VEIN
The major vein on each side of the neck draining blood from the head towards the heart. Large obvious vein in the neck.

JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
generalized inflammatory joint disease in children.

JUVENILE SCOLIOSIS
Begins between three and ten years of age

I is for...

IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS
Structural lateral curvature of an unknown cause.

ILIAC BONE
A part of the pelvic bone that is above the hip joint and from which autogenous bone grafts are frequently obtained.

ILIAC CREST
The large, prominent portion of the pelvic bone at the belt line of the body.

ILIOPSOAS MUSCLE
Large muscles starting at L-1 and becoming wider as it picks up segments from the lower lumbar spine; combines with the iliacus muscle before attatching to the lesser trochanter of the hip.

IMMOBILIZATION
Limitation of motion or fixation of a body part usually to promote healing.

INFANTILE SCOLIOSIS
Lateral curvature of the spine that begins before age 3.

INFRATENTORIAL
Beneath the tentorium.

INFUNDIBULUM
A stalk extending from the base of the brain to the pituitary gland.

INSTRUMENTATION
The use of instruments such as metal screws or braces during a surgical procedure to support bone as it heals.

INTERBODY
Between the bodies of two adjacent vertebrae

INTERCOSTALS
The muscles between the ribs.

INTERNAL FIXATION
The immobilization of bone fragments or joints with implants in order to promote healing or fusion.

INTERSPINOUS LIGAMENT
Ligament between each of the spinous processes.

INTERSPINOUS PSEUDARTHROSIS
Formation of a false joint between two spinous processes.

INTERVERTEBRAL DISC
See Disc (Intervertebral).

INTERVERTEBRAL DISC NARROWING
Narrowing of the space between any two vertebral bodies.

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON COUNTER PULSATION DEVICE
A pump which is inserted into the main vessel of the body, the aorta, to help the heart deliver blood to critical organs such as the brain or kidneys.

INTRACEREBELLAR
Within the cerebellum.

INTRA-ARTERIAL CATHETERIZATION ANGIOGRAPHY
An invasive study in which a catheter (a small tube) is placed in the artery and contrast material is injected to which makes the blood vessels visible on an x-ray image. The catheter is inserted in the groin into the femoral artery (the artery to he leg) through a needle, and is guided into the arteries in the neck and head. This study is associated with a very small (less than 0.05 % chance of serious complications) and requires the patient to lie in bed for approximately six hours to allow the leg vessel to heal.

INTRACEREBRAL
Within the cerebrum.

INTRACEREBRAL HEMATOMA
A blood clot within the brain.

INTRACRANIAL
Within the cranium of the skull.

INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE (ICP)
The overall pressure inside the skull.

INTRAOPERATIVE CISTERNOGRAPHY
Administration of a contrast dye into the ventricles which are chambers in the brain that contain brain fluid.

INTRAMEDULLARY
Refers to medullaris, marrow; (1) withing the medulla oblongata of the brain, (2) within the spinal cord, and (3) within the marrow cavity of bone.

INTRINSIC
Situated entirely within or pertaining exclusively to a part.

IN VITRO
Describing biological phenomena that are made to occur outside the living body traditionally in a test tube. In vitro is Latin for in glass.

IN VIVO
Within a living body. In vivo is Latin for in life.

INFERIOR
Situated below or directed downward.

INFORMED CONSENT
Consent of the patient who has received sufficient information to have surgery, receive medication, or participate in a clinical study.

INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW BOARD (IRB)
A committee designated by an institution, such as a hospital, to review and approve research projects; e.g., clinical studies in that institution.

INVESTIGATIONAL DEVICE EXEMPTION (IDE)
A FDA regulatory status which permits the human use of an unapproved medical device for the purposes of collecting clinical data under strictly controlled conditions.

ISCHEMIA
Inadequate circulation of blood generally due to a blockage of an artery.

ISOLA
A posterior fixation device.

ISOMETRIC
Of equal dimensions. In physiology, denoting the condition when the ends of a contracting muscle are held fixed so that contraction produces increased tension at a constant overall length.

ISOTONIC
Relating to isotonicity or isotonia. Having equal tension; denoting solutions possesing the same osmotic pressure; more specifically, limited to situations in which cells can neither swell nor shrink.

ISTHMIC
The lesion is in the pars interarticularis. Three types occur: lytic, fatigue fracture of the pars interarticularis; elongated but intact pars interarticularis; and acute fracture of the pars interarticularis.

H is for...

HABIT
An act, behavioral response, practice, or custom estbalished in one's repertoire by frequent repetition of the same act.

HALIFAX
Clamp across lamina of C-1 and C-2.

HARRINGTON ROD
An instrumentation and fusion using a straight, stiff rod for distraction or compression; associated with a posterior spinal fusion in the thoracic or thoracolumbar spine for scoliosis or trauma.

HEADACHE
Pain in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve.

HEAT
A high temperature, the sensation produced by proximity to fire or an incandescent object, as opposed to cold.

HEMANGIOMA
A benign tumor consisting of a mass of blood vessels.

HEMATOMYELIA
Effusion of blood (hemorrhage) into the substance of the spinal cord.

HEMATORRHACHIS
Spinal apoplexy; hemorrhage into vertebral canal.

HEMISPHERECTOMY
Excision of one cerebral hemisphere undertaken for malignant tumors, intractable epilepsy usually associate with infantile hemiplegia due to birth injury and other cerebral conditions.

HEMATOMA
A blood clot.

HEMIANOPIA
Loss of vision of one-half of the visual field.

HEMIATROPHY
Atrophy of half of an organ or half of the body.

HEMILAMINECTOMY
The excision of only one side of the lamina (right or left) relative to othe spinous process.

HEMIPLEGIA
Paralysis of one side of the body.

HEMORRHAGE
Bleeding due to the escape of blood from a blood vessel.

HEREDITARY
Transmissable from parent to offspring by information encoded in the parental germ cell.

HEREDITY
The transmission of characters from parent to offspring by information encoded in the parental germ cells. Genealogy.

HERNIATED INTERVERTBRAL DISC(HID)
Extrusion of part of the nucleus pulposus material through a defect in the annulus fibrosus.

HERNIATED NUCLEUS PULPOSUS (HNP)
Extrusion of the central portion of an intervertebral disc through the outer cartilaginous ring. The material can compress the spinal cord or nerves in or exiting the spinal canal.

HERNIATION
Formation of a protrusion.

HETEROTOPIC BONE FORMATION
The occurrence of bone growth in an abnormal location.

HIBBS SPINAL FUSION
A lumbar spinal fusion that includes fusing the spinous process, lamina, and facet for stabilization.

HODGSON
Anterior approach to C-1 and C-2 area for drainage of tuberculosis abcess.

HOOK
For spinal applications, a metallic medical device used to connect spinal structures to a rod.

HORMONE
A chemical substance formed in one gland or part of the body and carried by the blood to another organ which it stimulates to functional activity.

HUMERUS
The bone of the arm, articulating with the scapula above and the radius and ulna below.

HYDROCEPHALUS
A condition, often congenital, marked by abnormal and excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the cerebral ventricles. This dilates the ventricles and in infants and young children causes the head to enlarge.

HYDROMYELIA
Expansion of the spinal cord due to increased size of the central canal of the cord which is filled with CSF.

HYDROXYAPATITE (HA)
The lattice-like structure of bone composed of calcium and phosphorous crystals which deposits on collagen to provide the rigid structure of bone.

HYOID BONE
Small, vertically oriented bones lateral to trachea, located at the level of C-3.

HYPER
Excessive, above normal.

HYPERACUSIS
Abnormal acuteness of hearing or auditory sensation.

HYPERESTHESIA
Excessive sensibility to touch, pain or other stimuli.

HYPEREXTENSION
Extension of a limb or part beyond the normal limit.

HYPERFLEXION
Flexion of a limb or part beyond the normal limit.

HYPERLORDOSIS
Increase in the normal anterior concavity of the cervical or lumbar spine.

HYPERTENSION
High blood pressure.

HYPOPHYSECTOMY
Excision of the hypophysis cerebri.

HYPOPHYSIS CEREBRI
A gland of internal secretion lying on the upper surface of the sphenoid (wedge shaped) bone.

HYPOTHALAMUS
A collection of specialized nerve cells at the base of the brain which controls the anterior and posterior pituitary secretions, and is involved in other basic regulatory functions such as temperature control and attention.

G is for...

GALACTORRHEA
The discharge of milk from the breasts.

GALLIE
Wire around lamina of C-1 and spinous process of C-2.

GAMMA KNIFE
Equipment that precisely delivers a concentrated dose of radiation to a predetermined target using gamma rays.

GASSERION GANGLION
Mass of nervous tissue lying on the sensory root of the trigeminal nerve.

GENERALIZED SEIZURES
Seizures involving widespread areas on both sides of the brain at the time of onset. The generalized nature of these seizures accounts for their dramatic manifestations, which include loss of consciousness or awareness and convulsions. About 39% epileptics suffer primarily from generalized seizures.

GETTY
For decompression of lumbar spinal stenosis; excision of lamina and portion of facet.

GILL
Removal of the posterior spinal arch in spondylolisthesis.

GILL, MANNING, and WHITE
A procedure sometimes combined with posterolateral spinal fusion.

GLASGOW COMA SCALE
The most widely used system of classifying the severity of head injuries or other neurologic diseases.

GLASGOW OUTCOME SCALE
A widely used system of classifying outcome after head injury or other neurologic diseases.

GLENOID
Resembling a socket; denoting the articular depression of the scapula entering the formation of the shoulder joint.

GLENOHUMERAL
Relating to the glenoid cavity and the humerus.

GLIA (Also termed neuroglia)
The major support cells of the brain. These cells are involved in the nutrition and maintenance of the nerve cells.

GLIOBLASTOMA
A general term for malignant forms of astrocytoma.

GLIOMA
A tumor formed by glial cells.

GLOBUS PALLIDUS
Part of the basal ganglia which are brain cells that lie deep in the brain.

GOLDSTEIN
For scoliosis deformity graft incorporating posterior elements, including facet joints and ribs.

GRAFT
Any free (unattached) tissue or organ for transplantation.

GRAY MATTER
The nerve cell bodies to muscle and sensory outflow and input, respectively.

GRISEL SYNDROME
Subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint from inflammatory ligamentous laxity due to infection. Can result in neurologic complications.

F is for...

FACET
A flat, platelike surface that acts as part of a joint; as seen in the vertebrae of the spine and in the subtalar joint of the ankle. Each vertebra has two superior and two inferior facets.

FACET ARTHROPATHY
A degenerative disease affecting the facet joint.

FACECTOMY
Excision of an articular facet of a vertebra.

FACET TROPISM
Asymmetrical orientation of the facets comparing right to left side.

FAILURE of SEGMENTATION
Failure of a portion or all of two or more adjoining vertebrae to separate into normal units.

FALX (CEREBRI)
An extension of dura between the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

FATIGUE
That state, following a period of mental or bodily activity; characterized by a lessened capacity for work and reduced efficiency of accomplishment, usually accompained by a feeling of weariness, sleepiness, or irritability.

FATIGUE FRACTURE
A fracture that occurs in bone or in other materials. Including metal, as a result of repeated stress as opposed to a single injury.

FENESTRATION (of cyst)
Surgical creation of window-like opening.

FIBROSIS
The replacement of normal tissue with scar tissue.

FIBROMYOSITIS
Chronic inflammation of a muscle with an overgrowth, or hyperplasia, of the connective tissue.

FISSURE
A groove or natural division, deep furrow in the brain.

FLATTENING of NORMAL LUMBAR CURVE
Condition in which the hollow of the back becomes shallow or even straight.

FLEXION
The act of flexing or bending; bending of a joint so as to approximate the parts it connects.

FONTANELLE
Normal openings in the skull of infants; the largest of these is the anterior fontanel or "soft spot" in the middle of the head.

FOOD AND DRUG
ADMINISTRATION (FDA)The Federal government agency that has regulatory authority over the manufacture, distribution, and labeling of drugs, medical devices, and foods.

FONTANELLES
"Soft spots" of the infant's head, normal unossified areas in the infant skull.

FORAMEN
A natural opening or passage in bone. An opening allowing for the egress of spinal nerve roots from between two vertebrae.

FORAMINOTOMY
Surgical opening or enlargement of the bony opening traversed by a nerve root as it leaves the spinal canal. A procedure carried out alone or in conjunction with disc surgery.

FRACTURE
A disruption of the normal continuity of bone.

FRACTURE-DISLOCATION
Fracture of a bone that is also dislocated from its normal position in a joint.

FUNCTIONAL SCOLIOSIS
Any scoliosis that is caused by leg length or other functional disorder and not by a primary curvature of the spine.

FUNCTIONAL STEREOTACTIC NEUROSURGERY
Surgery intended to improve the function of the central nervous system. A stereotactic head frame is used along with imaging techniques to map the brain and localize the surgical target.

FUSIFORM ANEURYSM
A sausage-like enlargement of the vessel

FUSION
Union or healing of bone (see Arthrodesis).

E is for...

EDEMA
An excessive accumulation of fluid generally in extracellular.

EDWARDS
A posterior rod and sleeve device used in stabilization of traumatic spinal conditions.

EGGSHELL
Excavation of vertebral body for correction of deformity that is combined with spinal fusion.

ELECTROENCEPHALOPGRAHY (EEG)
The study of the electrical currents set up by brain actions; the record made is called an electroencephalogram.

ELECTROMYOGRAPHY (EMG)
A method of recording the electrical currents generated in a muscle during its contraction.

ENCEPHALOCELE
Protrusion of the brain through a cranial fissure.

ENDARTERECTOMY
Removal of fatty or cholesterol plaques and calcified deposits from the internal wall of an artery.

ENDOCRINE GLAND
A gland which furnishes an internal secretion, usually having an effect on another organ.

ENDOCRINOPATHY
Any disease due to abnormality of quantity or quality in one or more of the internal gladular secretions.

ENDOGENOUS
Arising within or derived from the body.

ENDOSCOPE
A medical device for viewing internal portions of the body. It is usually comprised of fiber optic tubes and video display instruments.

ENDOSCOPY
Inspection of internal body structures or cavities using an endoscope.

EPENDYMA
The membrane lining the cerebral ventricles of the brain and central canal of the spinal cord.

EPENDYMOMA
A growth in the brain or spinal cord arising from ependymal tissue. Tumor of the spinal cord.

EPIDURAL
Immediately outside the dura mater. Same as extradural.

EPIDURAL HEMATOMA
A blood clot between the dura mater and the inside of the skull.

EPILEPSY
Disorder characterized by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, causing abnormal sensation, movement or level of consciousness.

ESOPHAGUS
Portion of the gut between the mouth and stomach in the anterior neck.

EXCISION
Removal by cutting away material.

EXTRADURAL
On the outer side of the dura mater.

EXOGENOUS
Originating outside of the body.

EXTENSION
The act of bringing the distal portion of a joint in continuity (though only parallel) with the long axis of the proximal portion.

EXTRUSION
Displaced material reaches the spinal canal through fibers of the annulus, but remains connected to the central dis material.

D is for...

DE ANDRADE and MACNAB
Anterior approach for cervical occipital fusion.

DECOMPRESSION
In relation to the spine this procedure is carried out to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

DECOMPRESSIVE LAMINECTOMY
A decompression done by removing the lamina and spinous process.

DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION
A tremor control therapy for patients with Parkinson's Disease or essential tremors, who do not respond effectively to medications. It is a surgical reversible procedure that involves implanting a device to deliver mild electrical stimulation to block the brain signals that cause tremor.

DEGENERATIVE
The progressive deterioration of tissue.

DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE
Gradual or rapid deterioration of the chemical composition and physicial properties of the disc space.

DEGENERATIVE STENOSIS
Gradual hypertrophy of the vertebral body margin, facet joints, and ligamentum flavum leading to stenosis.

DE-MINERALIZED BONE
Bone tissue which has been depleted of its minerals; e.g., calcium and phosphorous.

DENDRITE
A nerve cell process that transmits impulses toward the cell body.

DEPRESSED SKULL FRACTURE
A break in the bones of the head in which some bone is pushed inward, possibly pushing on or cutting into the brain.

DERMATOME
Refers to the distribution of sensory nerves near the skin that are responsible for pain, tingling, and other sensations (or lack of).

DIABETES INSIPIDUS
Excretion of large amounts of urine of low specific gravity. The inability to concentrate urine.

DIAPHRAGM
The muscle between the abdomen and thorax; main muscle of normal breathing.

DIASTEMATOMYELIA
Congenital defect associated with spina bifida in which the spinal cord is split in half by bony spicules or fibrous bands, each half being surrounded by a dural sac.

DIATHERMY
The generation of heat in tissue by electrical currents for medical or surgical purposes.

DIFFUSE AXONAL INJURY
Damage to the axons of many nerve cells that lie in different parts of the brain.

DIFFUSE BRAIN INJURY
Damage to the brain that can affect many parts of the brain, often in a subtle fashion; examples include diffuse axonal injury and inadequate blood flow.

DIPHENYLHYDANTOIN
Dilantin; a medication used to control seizures.

DIPLOPIA
Double vision, due usually to weakness or paralysis of one or more of the extra-ocular muscles.

DISC
The intervertebral disc - cartilaginous cushion found between the vertebrae of the spinal column. It may bulge beyond the vertebral body and compress the nearby nerve root, causing pain. The terms "slipped disc," "ruptured disc," and "herniated disc" are often used interchangeably even though there are subtle differences.

DISC DEGENERATION
The loss of the structural and functional integrity of the disc.

DISCECTOMY
Surgical removal of part or all of an intervertebral disc material placing pressure on neural elements.

DISCITIS
Nonbacertial inflammation of an intervertebral disc or disc space.

DISC SPACE INFECTION
Infection in the space normally occupied by an intervertebral disc.

DISKOGRAM
The graphic record, usually radiographic, of diskography.

DISKOGRAPHY
Radiographic demonstration of intervertebral disc by injection of contrast media into the nucleus of the pulposus.

DISLOCATION
Displacement of an organ or any part; specifically disturbance or disarrangement of the normal relation of the bones entering the formation of a joint.

DISTAL
Situated away from the center of the body.

DOME
The round balloon like portion of the aneurysm which usually arises from the artery from a smaller portion called the neck of the aneurysm.

DOPPLER
A non-invasive study which uses sound waves to show the flow in a blood vessel and can be used to determine the degree of narrowing (percent stenosis) of the vessel. A wand is placed on the skin over the vessel to be imaged. This study has no risks and is not painful.

DORSAL COLUMN
The main, normal sensory tract to the brain.

DORSAL LATERAL COLUMN
The main tract of position and tone to the brain.

DORSOLATERAL
An approach to the dorsal spine by costotransversectomy, usually done for fractures and other affections of the spinal cord.

DOUBLE CURVE
Two lateral curves in a single spine; double major curve is two lateral curves of equal magnitude, and double thoracic curve is two thoracic curves.

DUNN
For myelomeningocele spinal deformity; use of contouring L-rod for posterior stabilization.

DURAL
Pertaining to the dura.

DURA MATER
A tough fibrous membrane which covers the brain and spinal cord, but is separated from them by a small space.

DWYER
Anteriorly placed screws and band device for correction of spinal deformities.

DWYER-HARTSILL
For failed lumbar degenerative disc disease; pedicle screws wired to a rectangular frame along with posterolateral fusion.

DYSESTHESIA
A condition in which a disagreeable sensation is produced by ordinary touch, temperature or movement.

DYSPHASIA
Difficulty in the use of language due to a brain lesion without mental impairment.

DYSPLASTIC
Congenital abnormalities of the arch of the sacrum or the arch of L-5 that permit the slipping to occur.

DYSRAPHISM
Any failure of closure of the primary neural tube. This general category would include the disorder myelomeningocele.

DYSTONIA MUSCULORM DEFORMANS
An affliction occurring especially in children, marked by muscular contractions producing distortions of the spine and hips.

C is for...

CADAVER
A term generally applied to a dead human body preserved for anatomical study.

CADAVERIC
A tissue or organ transplanted from a cadaver (deceased donor).

CALLAHAN
Individual wire fixation of a strut bone graft to involved facets.

CALLOSUM
The great commisure of the brain between the cerebral hemispheres.

CAMPTOCORMIA
Severe forward flexion of upper torso, usually an excessive psychologic reaction to back pain.

CANCELLOUS BONE
The spongy or honeycomb structure of some bone tissue typically found at the ends of long bones.

CAPNER
Draining of thoracic spinal abcess through an anterolateral approach.

CARCINOMA
Cancer, a malignant growth of epithelial or gland cells.

CAROTID ARTERY
Large artery on either side of the neck which supplies blood to most of the cerebral hemisphere. Main artery to the head that divides into external and internal carotid arteries.

CAROTID SINUS
Slight dilatation on the common carotid artery at its bifurcation containing nerve cells sensitive to blood pressure. Stimulation can cause slowing of the heart, vasodilatation and a fall in blood pressure.

CAROTID TUBERCLE
Prominence of the transverse process of C-6 felt on the lateral side of the neck.

CARPAL TUNNEL
Space under a ligament in wrist through which the median nerve enters the palm of the hand.

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
A condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, characterized especially by discomfort and disturbances of sensation in the hand.

CARRIER
A material or device used to deliver a therapy to a site in or on the body.

CARTILAGE
The hard, thin layer of white glossy tissue that covers the end of bone at a joint. This tissue allows motion to take place with a minimum amount of friction.

CARTILAGE SPACE NARROWING
Narrowing of any cartilage space; also called disc space narrowing.

CATHETER
A small tube used to inject a dye to see the blood vessles, similar to that used for looking at vessels in the heart.

CAUDA EQUINA
The bundle of spinal nerve roots arising from the end of the spinal cord and filling the lower part of the spinal canal(from approximately the thoraco-lumbar junction down).

CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME
Sufficient pressure on the nerves in the low back to produce multiple nerve root irritation and commonly loss of bowel and bladder contraol.

CAUDATE NUCLEUS Part of the basal ganglia which are brain cells that lie deep in the brain.

CENTRAL CORD SYNDROME
Most common of the incomplete traumatic spinal cord syndromes characterized by motor impairment that is proportionately greater in the upper limbs than in the lower, with baldder dysfunction and a variable degree of sensory loss below the level of the cord lesion.

CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Part of the nervous system which consists of the brain and spinal cord, to which sensory impulses are transmitted and from which motor impulses pass out, and which supervises and coordinates the activity of the entire nervous system.

CENTRUM
The body of a vertebra.

CEREBELLUM
The lower part of the brain which is beneath the posterior portion of the cerebrum and regulates unconscious coordination of movement.

CEREBRAL
Relating to the brain or intellect.

CEREBRAL CORTEX
Surface layer of gray matter of the cerebrum that functions chiefly in coordination of higher nervous activity; called also pallium.

CEREBRAL PALSY
Disability resulting from damage to the brain before or during birth and outwardly manifested by muscular incoordination and speech disturbances.

CEREBROSPINAL FLUID (CSF)
Water-like fluid produced in the brain that circulates and protects the brain and spinal cord, known as CSF.

CEREBRUM
The principal portion of the brain, which occupies the major portion of the interior of the skull and controls conscious movement, sensation and thought.

CERVICAL
Of or relating to the neck.

CERVICAL PLEXUS
Plexus of nerves that supply the neck muscles with branches named by muscles supplied, a portion which is called the ansa cervicalis.

CERVICAL RIB
Riblike structure in the seventh cervical vertebra that may cause nerve root irritation.

CERVICAL SPINAL FUSION
Spinal fusion involving the seven cervical segments. This may include the base of the skull, the occiput, and the first thoracic spine.

CHEMONUCLEOLYSIS
A treatment of an intervertebral disc that consists of an injection of chymopapain, a drug that dissolves part of the disc.

CHIASM (OPTIC)
Crossing of visual fibers as they head toward the opposite side of the brain. For each optic nerve most of the visual fibers cross to the opposite side, some run directly backward on each side without crossing.

CHOREA
A disorder, usually of childhood, characterized by irregular, spasmodic involuntary movements of the limbs or facial muscles.

CHOROID PLEXUS
A vascular structure in the ventricles of the brain which produces cerebrospinal fluid.

CINGULATE GYRUS
A long, curved convolution of the medial surface of the cortical hemisphere.

CINGULOTOMY
Electronic destruction of the anterior cingulate gyrus and callosum.

CLINICAL STUDIES
A process of strictly controlled evaluations involving patients. Some of these studies are required by the FDA prior to general release of a device or compound for use in humans.

COAGULATION
The process of clotting.

COBALT-CHROME
A term that is used in referring to cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy, a mixture of metals used in many surgical implants.

COCCYALGIA
Pain in the coccyx region 5 coccygodynia, coccyodynia, coccydynia.

COCCYGEAL
Remaining three or four, somewhat fixed, fused segments at the end of the spine (tailbone) that articulate with sacrum above.

COCCYGECTOMY
Excision of the coccyx (tailbone).

COCCYGOTOMY
Incision into the coccyx (tailbone).

COCCYX
The small bone at the end of the spinal column in man, formed by the fusion of four rudimentary vertebrae. The three, and sometimes four, segments of bone just below the sacrum; referred to as the tailbone.

COLLAGEN
A fibrous protein which is a major constituent of connective tissue. Such as skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones.

COLLAR
A band, usually denoting one encircling the neck.

COMA
A state of profound unconsciousness from which one cannot be roused.

COMBINED STENOSIS
For congenital or developmental reasons, the midsagittal diameter is decreased.

COMMINUTED FRACTURE
A fracture in which a bone is broken into more than two pieces. Often internal or external fixation devices are used to maintain proper alignment of the fragments.

COMMISSURAL MYELORRHAPY
A longitudinal division of the spinal cord to sever crossing fibers.

COMPENSATORY CURVE
A curve located above or below a rigid structural curve to maintain normal overall body alignment.

COMPRESSION
A squeezing together; the exertion of pressure on a body in such a way as to tend to increase its density; the decrease in a dimension of a body under the action of two external forces directed toward one another in the same straight line.

COMPRESSION of NERVE ROOT
Mechanical process resulting from a tumor, fracture, or herniated disc; the resulting irritation is called radiculitis if there is actual inflammation around the nerve. Pain from this type of disorder is called radicular pain.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) SCAN
A diagnostic imaging technique in which a computer reads x-rays to create a three-dimensional map of soft tissue or bone.

CONCUSSION
A disruption, usually temporary, of neurological function resulting from a blow or violent shaking.

CONGENITAL SCOLIOSIS
Scoliosis due to bony abnormalities present at birth involving either failure of formation of a vertebra or separation of adjacent vertebrae.

CONSTITUTIONAL STENOSIS
Normal-statured individuals with congenital variance in vertebral structure leading to a narrow canal.

CONTRACT
To shorten; to become reduced in size; in the case of muscle, either to shorten or to undergo an increase in tension.

CONTRAST MEDIUM
Any material (usually opaque to x-rays) employed to delineate or define a structure during a radiologic procedure.

CONTUSION
A bruise; an area in which blood that has leaked out of blood vessels is mixed with brain tissue.

CORDOTOMY
Transverse incision into the spinal cord.

CORONAL SUTURE
The line of junction of the frontal bones and the parietal bones of the skull.

CORPECTOMY
Excision of vertebral body usually combined with interpostion of prosthesis or bone graft.

CORPUS CALLOSUM
The greatest commissure of the brain between the cerebral hemispheres.

CORTEX
The external layer of gray matter covering the hemispheres of the cerebrum and cerebellum.

CORTICAL
Pertaining to the cortex.

CORTICAL BONE
The dense bone that forms the outer surface of bone.

COSTO
Combining form denoting relation to ribs.

COSTOCHONDRAL JUNCTION
Junction of the rib into cartilage in the anterior chest. NOTE: Most of the ribs have attachment to the cartilage rather than a direct junction with the breast bone.

COSTOVERTEBRAL ANGLE
Juncture of tissue inferior and lateral to the twelfth rib and vertebral body.

COSTOVERTEBRAL JOINT
Junction of the rib with the thoracic spine.

COTREL-DUBOUSSET
Posterior fixation device for spinal deformity, fracture, tumor, and degenerative conditions.

CRAMP
A painful muscle spasm caused by prolonged tetanic contraction.

CRANIUM
The part of the skull that holds the brain.

CRANIECTOMY
Opening of skull and removal of a portion of it.

CRANIOPHARYNGIOMA
Congenital tumor arising from the embryonic duct between the brain and pharynx.

CRANIOPLASTY
The operative repair of a defect of the skull.

CRANIOSTENOSIS
Premature closure of cranial sutures, limiting or distorting the growth of the skull.

CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS
Premature closure of cranial sutures, limiting or distorting the growth of the skull.

CRANIOTOMY
Opening of the skull, usually by creating a flap of bone.

CRANKSHAFT PHENOMENON -
Progressions of a spinal curve due to continued growth of the unfused anterior aspect of the spine following a posterior spine fusion for scoliosis in children.

CRICOID RING
Cartilage ring above the tranchea and below the thyroid cartilage, the first cricoid ring is at the level of C-6.

CSF
Cerebrospinal Fluid.

CSF SHUNT
A bypass or diversion of accumulations of cerebrospinal fluid to an absorbing or excreting system.

CT SCAN (computed tomography scan)
A diagnostic imaging technique in which a computer reads x-rays to create a three-dimensional map of soft tissue or bone.

CYTOLOGY
Study of cells.

B is for...

BAASTRUP d. (kissing spine)
Flase joint formed by wide posterior spinous processes of the lumbar spine. This may become a source of pain.

BACKBONE
See Spine.

BACK PAIN
nonspecific term used to describe pain below the cervical spine

BACTERICIDAL
Causing the death of bacteria.

BACTERIOSTATIC
Inhibiting or retarding the growth of bacteria.

BANKS-DERVIN ROD
For scoliosis fixation; a multiple level rod that is fixed with oblique spinous process to contralateral lamina screws.

BELL'S PALSY
Paralysis of facial muscles (usually one side) due to facial nerve dysfunction of unknown cause.

BENIGN
Not cancerous; does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body.

BIOABSORBABLE POLYMER
A substance, such as some plastics, which the human body can break down and absorb.

BIOCOMPATIBILITY
A characteristic of some materials that when they are inserted into the body do not produce a significant rejection or immune response.

BIODEGRADATION
The breakdown of organic materials into simple chemicals commonly found in the body.

BIOPSY
Removal of a small portion of tissue, usually for the purpose of making a diagnosis.

BLOOD-BRAIN-BARRIER
The barrier which exists between the blood and the cerebrospinal fluid which prevents the passage of various substances from the bloodstream to the brain.

BOHMAN
Posterior triple spinous process wiring technique in the cervical spine to secure bone graft.

BONE
The hard tissue that provides structural support to the body. It is primarily composed of hydroxyapatite crystals and collagen. Individual bones may be classed as long, short, or flat.

BONE GRAFT
Bone which is harvested from one location in an individual and placed in another individual (allograft bone) or in a different location in the same individual (autogenous bone).

BONE HARVESTING
The removal of bone for transplantation to another site. The most common sources are the iliac crests because these bones contain a large amount of cancellous bone, the inner spongy part, which is useful for getting grafts to "take."

BONE MARROW
The tissue contained within the internal cavities of the bones. A major function of this tissue is to produce red blood cells.

BONE PLATE
Usually a relatively thin metal device which is affixed to bone via screws. Bone plates are used to immobilize bones or bone fragments such that healing can occur.

BONE SCREW
A threaded metal device which is inserted into bone. The functions of bone screws are to immobilize bones or bone fragments or to affix other medical devices, such as metal bone plates, to bones.

BOSWORTH
A fusion using an H-shaped bone graft in spondylolisthesis.

BOVINE BONE EXTRACT
ABMP derived from the bones of bovines

BRACHIAL
Relating to the arm.

BRADFORD
For kyphoscoliosis deformity; staged anterior and posterior approach for interbody fusion and correction of deformity.

BRADYCARDIA
Slowness of the heart rate.

BRADYKINESIA
Slowness in movement.

BRATTSTROM
Use of acrylic cement for C-1 to C-2 fusion.

BROOKS and JENKINS
Loops of wire around lamina of C-1 and C-2 to hold bone graft between lamina.

BROWN-SEQUARD'S SYNDROME
Loss of sensation of touch, position sense, and movement on the side of a spinal cord lesion, with loss of pain sensation on the other side. Caused by a lesion limited to one side of spinal cord.

BURR
An electrical drilling tool for enlarging atrephine (circular) hole in the cranium.

A is for...

ABBOTT METHOD
For scoliosis of the spine; traction is applied to produce overcorrection, followed by casting.

ABDOMINAL MUSCLES
Important for support of the spine, these muscles are the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and transversus.

ABDUCTION
Movement away from midline of body in frontal plane; applied to hip, shoulder, fingers, thumb, and foot.

ABRASION
Any superficial scraping of skin tissue or mucous membrane mechanically or through injury.

ABSCESS
Localized collection of pus in a cavity which may form in any tissue.

ACHONDROPLASTIC STENOSIS
Increased vertebral thickness, marked concavity of the vertebral body, and shortened pedicles.

ACOUSTIC NEURINOMAS
Benign tumor of the hearing nerve (eighth nerve). A progressively enlarging, benign tumor, usually within the internal auditory canal or hearing nerve.

ACROMEGALY
Disorder marked by progressive enlargement of the head, face, hands, feet, and thorax, due to the excessive secretion of growth hormone.

ACTION TREMOR
A type of tremor that occurs during voluntary movements, such as lifting a cup to one's mouth.

ACTIVA TREMOR CONTROL THERAPY
The therapy uses an implanted device to deliver mild electrical stimulation to block the brain signals that cause tremor. The therapy stimulates the target nuclei in the thalamus via an insulated wire lead with electrodes that are surgically implanted in the brain and connected to a pulse generator that is implanted near the collarbone. The stimulation level can be adjusted to get the most possible tremor control with minimal side effects.

ACUTE
Severe, for a short time.

ADENOCARCINOMA
Cancer arising from secretory cells, often in a gland. Breast and pancreatic cancers are usually adenocarcinomas.

ADENOMA
A benign growth formed of glandular tissue.

ADOLESCENT SCOLIOSIS
Lateral curvature of the spine occurring during adolescence.

ADULT SCOLIOSIS
Scoliosis occuring after skeletal maturity.

AEBI, ETTER, AND COSICA
Anterior approach to inferior C-2 to fractured dens with screws.

AEDs
Antiepileptic drugs.

AFFERENT NEURON
Transmitting impulses to the central nervous system.

AGNOSIA
Absence of the ability to recognize the form and nature of persons and things.

AGRAPHIA
Loss of the power of writing due either to muscular incoordination or to an inability to phrase thought.

ALAR DYSGENESIS
Abnormality in development of the sacroiliac joint.

ALBEE
Fusion of the spine using grafts across the spinous processes in spondylolisthesis.

ALLOGRAFT BONE
Sterile bone derived from another human which is used for grafting procedures.

AMAUROSIS
Loss of vision without discoverable lesion in the eye structures or optic nerve.
Amaurosis fugax - temporary blindnessoccurring in short periods.

AMENORRHEA
Absence of the menses due to causes other than pregnancy or advancing age.

AMNESIA
Loss of memory caused by brain damage or by severe emotional trauma.

ANALGESIA
Loss of sensibility to pain, loss of response to a painful stimulus.

ANAPLASIA
In the case of a body cell, a reversion to a more primitive condition. A term used to denote the alteration in cell character which constitutes malignancy.

ANASTOMOSIS
A communication, direct or indirect: A joining together. In the nervous system a jointing of nerves or blood vessels.

ANENCEPHALY
Absence of the greater part of the brain, often with skull deformity.

ANESTHESIA
Loss of sensation of a body part; or of the body when induced by the administration of a drug.

ANESTHESIOLOGIST
Physician who administers pain-killing medications during surgery.

ANEURYSM
Dilation of an artery, formed by a circumscribed enlargement of its wall. Saccular (berry) aneurysm - sac-like bulging on one side of an artery usually arising at an arterial branching.

ANGIOGRAM
A study which shows the blood vessels leading to and in the brain by injecting a dye or contrast substance through a catheter placed in the artery in the leg.

ANGIOMA
A tumor whose cells tend to form blood vessels (hemangioma) or lymph vessels (lymphangioma).

ANGIOGRAPHY
Radiography of blood vessels using the injection of material opaque to x-rays to give better definition to the vessels.

ANISOSPONDYLY
Different abnormal shapes of the vertebral bodies.

ANKYLOSING SPINAL HYPEROSTOSIS
Arthritic disorder in which bridgingosteophytes located anteriorly and posteriorly on the vertebral body bind two or more vertebrae together; Forestier disease.

ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
Stiffening or fixation of the vertebra; an inflammatory joint disease mainly affecting the spine hips, and pelvis.

ANNULUS FIBROSUS
The outer, fibrous, ring-like portion of an intervertebral disc.

ANOREXIA
Loss of appetite; a condition marked by loss of appetite leading to weight loss.

ANOSMIC
Without the sense of smell.

ANOXIA
Total lack of oxygen supply.

ANTERIOR
Front of the body or situated nearer the front of the body.

ANTERIOR APPROACH
When used to approach the cervical, cervicodorsal, dorsal, and lumbar spines, it is designed to provide sufficient surface for multiple segmental spinal fusions; Hodgson, Roaf. For specific cervical spinal explorations and fusions; Southwick and Robinson, Bailey and Badgley, Whitesides and Kelly, Henry (to vertebral artery).

ANTERIOR CERVICAL DISCECTOMY
An operation where the cervical spine is reached through a small incision in the front of your neck. After the soft tissues of the neck are separated, the intervertebral disc and bone spurs are removed.

ANTERIOR CERVICAL DISCECTOMY WITH FUSION
An operation performed on the upper spine to relieve pressure on one or more nerve roots, or on the spinal cord. The term is derived from the words anterior (front), cervical (neck), and fusion (joining the vertebrae with a bone graft).

ANTERIOR DISPLACEMENT
Forward movement of the superior segment on the inferior one.

ANTERIOR LUMBAR INTERBODY FUSION (ALIF)
Operation where the lumbar spine is approached through an incision in the abdomen. A portion of the affected disc space is removed from the spine and replaced with an implant.

ANTERIOR SPINAL FUSION
Approaching the spine from the front, the intervertable disc and/or vertebral body is removed and bone graft is inserted. Some variations of this procedure include the Smith-Robinson, Cloward and dowel procedures.

ANTERIOR SPURRING
Ligament turning to bone on anterior side of vertebral body.

ANTEROLATERAL
Situated or occurring in front of and to the side.

ANEROLATERAL APPROACH
An approach to the dorsal spine by rib resection to explore the spine anteriorly and in some cases to do spinal fusions and decompressions spinal cord.

ANTI-COAGULANT
A medication that prevents coagulation of the blood.

ANTIDIURETIC
An agent which reduces the output of urine. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is formed in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland. Its secretion reduces urine output.

AO FIXATEUR INTERNE
A posteriorly placed spinal fixation device.

APHASIA
Difficulty with, or loss of use of language, in any of several ways including reading, writing, speaking and failure to understand written, printed or spoken words. This is not related to intelligence but to specific lesions in the brain.

APNEA
Cessation of respiration; inability to get one's breath.

APOPLEXY
A sudden event. Often used as equivalent to stroke.

ARACHNOID
Middle layer of membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.

ARACHNOIDITIS
Inflammation of the arachnoid membrane, most commonly seen within the spinal cord around the spinal cord and cauda equina.

AREA (Cortical)
A part of the brain having a special function as in
Motor a. - The cortical portion of the brain controlling movement.
Sensory a. - The cortical portion, controlling sensation.

ARNOLD-CHIARI MALFORMATION
A condition in which there is displacement of the medulla and cerebellum into the opening in the basilar part of the occipital bone. It is one of the causes of hydrocephalus and is usually accompanied by spina bifida and menigomyelocele.

ARTERIOGRAPHY
See angiography.

ARTERIOSCLEROSIS
Thickening and calcification of the arterial wall with loss of elasticity and contractility.

ARTERIOVENOUS
Relating to both arteries and veins.

ARTERIOVENOUS MALFORMATION
Collection of blood vessels with one or several abnormal communications between arteries and veins which may cause hemorrhage or seizures.

ARTERY of ADAMKIEWICZ
An important source of blood supply to the lower portion of the spine, usually occurring at T-9 to T-11 level; however, not the only blood supply to the cord at that level.

ARTHRALGIA
Joint pain.

ARTHRITIS
Inflammation of a joint usually characterized by swelling, pain and restriction of motion.

ARTHRODESIS
The fusion of bones across a joint space, thereby limiting or eliminating movement. It may occur spontaneously or as a result of a surgical procedure, such as fusion of the spine.

ARTHROPATHY
Any disease or disorder involving a joint.

ARTHROPLASTY
The surgical remodeling of a diseased or damaged joint.

ARTHROSCOPE
An instrument inserted into the joint cavity to view the interior of a joint and correct certain abnormalities. An arthroscope is an endoscope for use in a joint.

ARTHROSCOPY
The procedure of visualizing the inside of a joint by means of an arthroscope.

ARTICULAR
Pertaining to a joint.

ASTROCYTE
Cell which supports the nerve cells (neurons) of the brain and spinal cord.

ASTROCYTOMA
Tumor within the substance of the brain or spinal cord made up of astrocytes - often classified from Grade I (slow-growing) to Grade III (rapid-growing).

ATAXIA
A loss of muscular coordination, abnormal clumsiness.

ATHETOSIS
A condition in which there is a succession of slow, writhing, involuntary movements of the fingers and hands, and sometimes of the toes and feet.

ATLANTO-AXIAL
Pertaining to the atlas and the axis; denoting the joint between the first two cervical vertebrae.

ATLANTO-EPISTRPHIC
See atlanto-axial.

ATLANTO-OCCIPITAL
Relating to the atlas and the occipital bone.

ATLANTO-ODONTOID
Relating to the atlas and the dens of the axis.

ATLAS
First cervical vertebrae, articulating with the occipital bone and rotating around
the dens of the axis.

ATONIC SEIZURE
Seizures that are characterized by a sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the individual to instantly drop to the floor, commonly known as "drop attacks".

ATROPHY
A wasting of the tissues of a body part.

AURA
Warning sign that people with epilepsy often experience prior to the onset of a seizure, which may consist of a strange taste, bad feeling, or tingling sensation.

AUTOGENOUS BONE
Bone originating from the same individual; i.e., an individual's own bone.

AUTOGRAFT BONE
Bone transplanted from one part to another part of the body in the same individual.

AUTOLOGUS
a graft in which the donor and recipient area are in the same individual.

AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM
Involuntary nervous system, also termed the vegetative nervous system. A system of nerve cells whose activities are beyond voluntary control.

AVASCULAR
Non-vascular, not provided with blood vessels.

AVM (ARTERIOVENOUS MALFORMATION)
Deformity, abnormal shape or structure relating to veins and arteries.

AXIS
The vertebral column. The second cervical vertebra, about which the first cervical vertebra rotates, allowing head movement.

AXON
The part of a nerve cell that usually sends signals to other nerves or structures.