Orthopedic Surgery Terms Explained [Easy Guide for Patients] Part 5 – Common Abbreviations in Orthopedic Surgery

In part 1 of our Orthopedic Surgery Terms Explained [Easy Guide for Patients], we explained some terms you might find useful when talking to an orthopaedic surgeon about your  diagnostic procedures,  in Part 2 – parts of the body mainly affected by orthopedic conditions, in Part 3 – we talked about common orthopedic conditions and last time, in Part 4 – we delved into some of the terms relating to common procedures.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at some of the most commonly used abbreviations in orthopedic surgery. If you don’t find what you are looking for here, don’t hesitate, call our Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic and make an appointment, our orthopedic doctors will be happy to help.

So what are Abbreviations and why is it worth you know them?

Abbreviations, are the shorthand used in many professions and fields of study. I’m sure you’ve all heard of DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid). In medicine these abbreviations are extremely commonplace as they normally refer to very lengthy and complex words and phrases.

So now we all know what they are, you’re probably wondering “Why do I need to know them?”. As a patient, or relative of someone who is awaiting orthopedic surgery it would be a great benefit to at least be familiar with some of the terminology that will surround you during your hospital visit. We’ve all been there when a group of medical professionals are discussing our condition or recovery and to many it can seem like a foreign language. Here at  Raleigh Orthopedic surgical Center we know that understanding your own condition provides a sense of wellbeing and peace of mind that can make a potentially stressful period much more relaxed.

5 orthopedic Abbreviations everyone should know

The field of orthopedic surgery is vast and as a result the vocabulary used is extensive. That’s why here at Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Center, NC, we’ve compiled an easy-to-read list of terms to help you better understand your surgical procedure:

NSAID – (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug)

As the name suggests this is the term for a group of drugs which help to reduce swelling, pain and fever. Some common examples are Aspirin, Diclofenac, and Ibuprofen.

C-Spine and C1-7 – (Cervical Spine and the associated vertebrae)

The cervical spine is what you and I would think of as the neck region of the spine. The vertebrae run from the base of our skull to the top of our shoulders. If you feel pain in this area it may be wise to contact a professional at Raleigh Orthopedic surgical Center. 

CTS – (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition in the arm and hand that causes a tingling or numb sensation. It is very common and is a result of the Median nerve being squeezed as it moves through the wrist.

L-Spine and L1-5 – (Lumbar Spine and associated vertebrae)

The lumbar spine or lower back, as it’s more commonly referred to, is the area of our spine usual situated about 5-6 inches below our shoulder blades. This is a common area for back pain as the lower down the spine you travel the more weight it carries.

T-Spine and T1-12 – (Thoracic Spine and associated vertebrae)

The thoracic spine or upper back is the longest and in many ways the most complex region of our spine, it is the only part of the spine attached to the ribcage. Common causes of pain here are muscular problems, often caused by poor posture, and joint dysfunction.

Raleigh Orthopedic Surgical Center

Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center is the FIRST AND ONLY outpatient surgery center in Raleigh to specialize exclusively in orthopedic surgery. Our surgeons in Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center perform more than 4,000 outpatient orthopedic procedures on an annual basis.

Our experienced team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other professional staff work together to achieve the best possible outcome for you. The Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center has board-certified surgeons and physicians with advanced training in their respective sub-specialties.

The Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center, NC, is committed to providing you with world-class services during your treatment in our Outpatient Surgery Center in Raleigh. Your care will at all times be physician-directed and patient-focused.

Find out more about our Outpatient Surgery Center in Raleigh, by watching this video tour.

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.