Glossary of Spinal Terms

Microdiscectomy
A minimally invasive procedure for the surgical removal of herniated disc material, which uses a special microscope or magnifying instrument to view the disc and nerves. The magnified view makes is possible for the surgeon to remove herniated disc material through a smaller incision, causing less damage to the surrounding tissue.

Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and tiny specialized technology such as endoscopes (small video cameras). These new techniques and technologies typically result in quicker patient recovery times than traditional techniques, as they reduce trauma to soft tissues and minimize blood-loss during surgery.

MRI
Short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. An MRI is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to create two-dimensional images of organs and structures inside the body. MRIs do not involve the use of radiation.

Multiple Myeloma
A cancer of the bone marrow: specifically a proliferation of the plasma cells. Multiple myeloma destroys bone tissue, in addition to causing anemia and affecting the immune system. Myeloma is referred to as “multiple” because several bone marrow sites are usually affected.

Myelogram
A test that uses a special dye and x-rays to make pictures of the bones and fluid-filled space between the bones in your spine (spinal canal). The test is performed to find a tumor, an infection, problems with the spine such as a herniated disc, or narrowing of the spinal canal caused by arthritis. May also be done with a CT scan.

Sources: Kyphon, Stryker, WebMD