glossary of terms

As part of our ongoing commitment to helping you get back in motion, we offer these easy to understand definitions of medical terms you will find on our site. After all, the more you understand about your condition, the easier it will be to consult with a doctor and choose treatment options that are right for you.

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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).

Cervical Spine

The cervical spine is made up of the first seven vertebrae in the spine. It starts just below the skull and ends just above the thoracic spine. The cervical spine has a lordotic curve (a backward "C"-shape) - just like the lumbar spine. The cervical spine is much more mobile than both of the other spinal regions - think about all the directions and angles you can turn your neck.

Fusion

Union or healing of bone.

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 largest of the spinal segments.

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.

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May 15 2012 - 19:17:49