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.

Free from living organisms.

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

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

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

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.

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.

A metallic element used to make surgical implants.

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

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.  

Government agency that regulates all medical devices and drugs.  

The tenth cranial nerve, which is a mixed nerve that has both motor and sensory function.

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.

Chambers within the brain that contain the cerebrospinal fluid.

Inflammation and/or infection of the ventricles.

The surgical opening in a ventricle of the brain to drain cerebrospinal fluid, especially in hydrocephalus.

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.

Sensation of movement or rotation of one's self.

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