Term

Definition

Discectomy

Excision (cutting out), in part or whole, of an intervertebral disc. The most common indication is disc displacement or herniation (see 'Hernia'). In addition to standard surgical removal, it can be performed by percutaneous discectomy or by laparoscopic discectomy, the former being the more common.

Fracture

A break in a bone

Fracture fixation

The use of usually metallic devices inserted into or through bone to hold a fracture in a set position and alignment while it heals.

Facet dislocation

Complete displacement that occurs between facets of the interior (located below) and superior (located above) articular processes of adjacent vertebra

Hernia

Protrusion (pushing out) of tissue, structure, or part of an organ through the muscular tissue or the membrane by which it is normally contained

Reduction

The restoration, by surgical or manipulative procedures, of a part to its normal anatomic relation

Surgical decompression

A surgical operation for the relief of pressure in a body compartment or on a body part