S1, S2, S3, S4: (Cardio) heart sounds.
S-PEP: (Abbrev) serum protein electrophoresis.
S-phase fraction: (Lab)
a measure of the percentage of cells in a tumor that are in the phase of the
cell cycle during which DNA is synthesized.
SAANDS: (Onc) acronym for selective
apoptotic neoplastic drugs.
Saber BT trocar:
(Instrument) GI procedures,
endoscopy; aka, Saber blunt tip trocar.
Sabin vaccine: oral
polio (OPV).
Sable PTCA balloon
catheter: (Equip) cardiology
SABRE sling: (Uro) acronym for
self-anchoring bioresorbable; used to surgically treat stress incontinence in
women (2002).
saccade: (Ophth)
The series of involuntary, abrupt, rapid, jerking of both eyes simultaneously
in changing the point of fixation on an object.
saccate: shaped
like a sac, contained in a sac.
Saccharomyces:
(Lab) genus of yeast.
SACH prosthesis: (Equip) solid ankle cushioned heel, artificial foot.
sacral ala: wings of the sacrum.
sacral plexus: (Neuro) nerves that supply
the lower limbs.
sacroiliitis: Note
spelling: double “i”.
sacrocolpopexy: (Procedure) Also called abdominal sacrocolpopexy; to
repair uterine prolapse via abdominal route (HPI 2001).
sacrohorizontal angle
sacrospinous ligament: pelvis.
sacrotuberous ligament: pelvis.
SAD: (Abbrev) seasonal affective disorder.
SADD: acronym
for Students Against Drunk Driving.
saddleback: swayback.
saddle anesthesia: (Neuro)
nerve root injury, numbness in areas where a saddle would touch.
saddle embolism: (Hem) straddling embolism
of any vascular bifurcation.
saddle nose: (ENT)
septal hematoma leads to infection and necrosis of the cartilage.
SAECG: signal-average electrocardiogram.
Saegesser sign: (GI) for splenic injury or splenic rupture.
Safar bronchoscope: (Equip)
Safe Step needle: (Equip) blood collection needle with retraction feature to
prevent accidental needle sticks (1997).
Safetex cervical spatula: (Instrument)
used to collect specimens from cervix, vagina.
safety parameters , safety laboratory parameters
safety pin orthosis:
(Ortho)
for finger.
SAF-Gel: Hydrogel wound care dressing.
Safil suture: synthetic absorbable (mostly used in eye surgeries)
(1998).
Sage rod: (Equip) for forearm.
sagittal rotation: 5th lumbar vertebra and sacrum.
Sagittal Linear
Transducer: (Equip) enables visualization of most of the prostate and
rectal wall.
Sagittal Sector
Transducer: (Equip) for imaging of the
prostate gland in the sagittal view and includes a needle guide for performing
transrectal biopsies.
sagittal sinus: (Neuro) venous sinus
sagittal suture: (Neuro) where 2 parietal
bones meet.
Saha procedure: (Ortho) shoulder.
Saizen injection: (Rx) somatropin; long term treatment for children
with growth failure; exclusively uses the “cool click” needle-free injection
system. (2000).
Salagen: (Rx) generic = pilocarpine; for treatment of dry mouth,
improves saliva production (1998).
SalEst: (Lab/OB) test used to determine risk of
preterm labor by testing salivary estriol (1998).
SaliCept: (ENT)
Line of products to treat mouth conditions, aphthous ulcers, stomatitis,
irritation from braces and dental appliances, with an oral rinse and a freeze
dried dressing to treat oral wounds.
salicylic acid / salicylates: (Pharm) analgesics, pain relievers (aspirin is acetysalicylic acid, or ASA). (See “salsalates”)
Salinger reducer: ?
salmeterol:
(Rx) generic for Serevent,
etc., bronchodilator for asthma, COPD.
Salmon-Rickham
reservoir: (Neuro/Equip) for
hydrocephalus.
salon sink radiculopathy:
(Neuro) nerve root
compression in cervical spine when leaning head back for shampooing in hair
salons; pain, tingling, weakness in neck and upper extremities.
salpingo-ovariolysis: (GYN) done to restore
anatomy and function to ovaries and tubes.
salsalates: (Pharm) a
group of medications used for osteoarthritis; sometimes called salicylsalicylic
acids. (See salicylic acids above).
SALT: (regarding chemotherapy) sequential aggressive local
therapy.
salt pork: (Homeopathy/ENT) inserted into the nostril to stop bleeding in patients who have a blood
dyscrasia-Yes! the cured pork side meat normally used
in baked beans and regular bacon is said to work just as well for this
condition!
saltatory: meaning
proceeding by leaps or abrupt movements, rather than gradual (See “salutary”).
Salter osteotomy: (Proc/Ortho) hip.
Salter-Harris 1 to 4
fracture: epiphyseal fracture in
children (NOTE: Sometimes just dictated as “Salter 2 fracture”, “Salter 1”,
etc.).
Salter-Thomson classification: (Ortho)
of Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, broken down into 2 groups based on x-ray
appearance.
Salto Talaris: (Ortho)
ankle replacement.
Salubria nerve cuff: Cuff used to protect and help peripheral nerves grow
back together after they have been damaged or severed.
Salus incision / arch
salutary: meaning
producing a beneficial effect; promoting health (See “saltatory”). NOTE: The
word “salutatory” means providing a statement of welcome; as is the duty of the
salutatorian at graduation ceremonies).
salutatory: providing a statement of welcome; as is the duty of
the salutatorian at graduation ceremonies (See “salutary” and “salutatory”)
salvage therapy: treatment that is given after condition has not
responded to other treatments, mostly used when talking about cancer.
Salvatore-Maloney
tracheotome.
salvos / salvoes: (plural
noun) simultaneous or successive discharge, a sudden burst.
S.A.M.: surgical assist mechanism; an
mechanical arm used to hold instruments at surgery to allow for one hand
operation (2001).
SAM: systolic anterior motion.
Sam splint: foam pad with aluminum center.
samarium 153: a radioactive substance used in cancer therapy.
SAMe: (pronounced
“sam-ee”) an OTC supplement, S-Adenosyl-Methionine, used
mainly for depression, overall health. (2002)
Sam Roberts
headrest: (Equip)
Samonara palatoplasty: (Surgery/ENT)
Sampaolesi line: (Ophth)
A pigmented line anterior to Schwalbe line (in cornea).
Samter syndrome: (ENT) an
inflammatory condition, symptoms include bronchial asthma, nasal polyps,
intolerance to aspirin.
Sanctura: (Rx) generic = trospium
chloride; for overactive bladder, incontinence.
Sand process: (Ophth) uses laser to reshape the cornea, developed
by Dr Bruce Sand (2002).
Sanders laryngoscope: (Equip/Instruments)
Sanders vasectomy
forceps: (“ “)
Sandifer syndrome: (Peds/GI) GE reflux, with
abnormal head, neck, and trunk movements.
Sandostatin: (Rx) generic = octreotide acetate, currently indicated
for control of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea and flushing, as well as for the
treatment of acromegaly (1997), also Sandostatin LAR Note: LAR in the
trademark name is an acronym for long-acting repeatable (1998).
SANE nurse: (Acronym) sexual assault nurse examiner; a new
position currently at Meriter Hospital in Madison, WI, and ERs throughout the
country to assist sexual assault victims, in an attempt to make the trauma a
little less difficult. (NOTE: Jill Poarch, RN, is the coordinator at Meriter as of 2005).
Sansert: DISCONTINUED
FEB 2003; (methysergide maleate)
however, it still may be referred to in dictations, and FDA is allowing
remaining supply to be ordered from Novartis until Feb 2003; used for
migraines, Rx (FDA 2002).
Sanskrit: (Language) ancient
saponin: substance
found in soybeans and other plants, may help lower cholesterol and may have
anticancer effects.
Sarafem: (Rx) generic = fluoxetine HCI; for treatment of
premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Dosage may be daily, using the Puvules formulation, or intermittently, taking just before
each menstrual period starts (14 days prior).
NOTE: Lilly also markets fluoxetine
hydrochloride as Prozac.
sarcolemma: the delicate plasma membrane which invests every
striated muscle fiber.
sarcolemmal membrane receptor
Sarmiento osteotomy: (Procedure) for intertrochanteric fractures.
Sarno, John E:
(Author) author of the book “Healing Back Pain, The Mind Body Connection”,
which providers sometimes recommend to patients.
SARS: (Infectious
Disease) severe acute respiratory syndrome; in 2003, a widespread outbreak
believed to originate in Asia, as well as Canada and the northern US; high
fever, headache, body aches; some deaths have been attributed to the syndrome;
no known treatment or cause at this time (CDC).
sartorius muscle: (Anatomy)
in the leg, longest muscle in the human body.
SAS shoes: (Podiatry) brand name.
SASH method: (Hem) IV line flush procedure/technique,
stands for saline, administration of solution/medication, saline, heparin.
Saticon vacuum tube: (Equip)
Satietrol Complete: (Nutrition) OTC liquid meal replacement for weight
loss.
satiety: eating
to the point of being satisfied, full.
SatinSlit: (Instruments) ophthalmologic instruments
Satisfaction With Life Domain Scale:
(Psych)
evaluation of life satisfaction, specific to certain domains, i.e., home, work,
etc.
satisfactorily: (spelling source: Webster’s Dictionary)
Sattler veil: (Ophth) edema of the cornea that may develop after
wearing contact lens.
“Saturday night” paralysis: (Neuro)
condition seen when an intoxicated person lies on his/her arm all night,
becomes numb.
Saturn splint: (Ortho) for
carpal tunnel syndrome (1999).
satyr ears: (ENT) pointed pinae.
Saucony shoes:
brand name of fitness shoes.
Sauerbruch-Zukschwerdt retractor:
(Instrument)
Saunders-Paparella window
rasp: (Instrument)
sausage toe / sausage finger / sausage digit: (Rheum)
A sign of arthritis, osteomyelitis; swelling at beginning of tendons, ends of
joints or entire digits.
Sauve-Kapandji procedure:
(Ortho) distal radioulnar joint
surgery.
Savary-Guillard dilator: (GI) for esophageal stricture.
Savate:
a form of martial arts
involving striking and kicking techniques.
SAVER procedure: (Cardio)
acronym for surgical anterior ventricular endocardial restoration; done
immediately after CABG and mitral valve replacement/repair (Stedman’s Update
2002).
saw palmetto: OTC
herbal supplement for the treatment of prostate conditions.
Sawtell-Davis forceps:
(Instrument)
sawtooth flutter waves: (Cardio) on
EKG.
Sawzall: A brand
name electric power tool manufactured by Milwaukee Tools.
SAXX
renal stent.
Sbarbaro tibial
prosthesis
Sbarbaro total hip
prosthesis
SBE: (Cardio/Abbrev) subacute bacterial endocarditis.
SBE prophylaxis: antibiotics given before procedures, especially
dental, to guard against SBE, for anyone who has had previous SBE, prosthetic
heart valves, rheumatic fever, etc.
SC infusion
(subcutaneous), continuous: (Equip) can be done outside the hospital to give morphine or
similar drugs through a small gauge needle connected to a pump; patient inserts
into a new site every 5-7 days.
scabiform: relating to scabies.
SCAD: Aka, SCADD; short
chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency; a fatty acid oxidation disorder (FAOD
or FAD or FOD).
scalene node: (Pulm) in the lungs.
scalenus anticus /medius / posticus muscles: (Anatomy) anterior neck.
scaly: meaning having scales.
Scandanavian Simvastatin Survival Study: (Research) aka, “The 4-S Study”; testing the use of Zocor in
diabetics to reduce coronary events.
ScaniCal:
(Nutrition) OTC nutritional
calorie booster.
Scanlon procedure:
(Surgery) a type of modified
radical mastectomy.
scanning speech: speaking
with hesitancy and disrupted rhythm.
Scanpore hypoallergenic tape
scapholunate
Scanmate / Scanmate II: (Equip) ultrasonic
stethoscope, used in 2D echo imaging.
scar carcinoma: (Onc)
seen in longstanding interstitial lung
disease, associated with collagen vascular disease.
Scar Care: OTC
scar management system designed to reduce and possibly prevent the formation of
hypertrophic and keloid scars (1996).
scarlatina:
another name for scarlet
fever, or group A streptococcal infection (note the spelling is with no “e”,
scarlatina, NOT “scarletina”).
“scattergram”:
a slang term for blood sugars that
are “all over the board” or extremely variable, not consistent.
SCCL: (Abbrev) small cell carcinoma of the lung.
Sch-1000 aerosol: (Pharm) bronchodilator.
schadenfreude: (Psych) German for “malicious satisfaction in the misfortunes
of others.”
Schamberg purpura:
(Derm) seen most in pediatric
patients, condition of pigmented purpuric dermatitis with “cayenne pepper
spots” on lower extremities.
Schatzker fracture
classification: (Ortho) a system to classify tibial plateau fractures.
Schatzki ring: (GI) in the esophagus, constricting ring at the junction of
the columnar and squamous mucosa.
Schenck disease: (Derm)
chronic fungal infection involving skin and superficial lymph nodes.
Schepens
ophthalmoscope: (Equip)
Scheuermann disease: (Ortho/Neuro) decreased
disc space, especially anteriorly, irregular vertebral endplates.
Schiller technique: (OB-GYN) D&C.
Schiller test: (OB-GYN)
Test in which iodine is applied to the cervix to test for cancer cells.
Schindler
gastroscope: (Equip)
Schindler syndrome: (GI)
maldigestion of atrophic gastritis.
Schirmer test: (Ophth) for dry eyes; tests amount of fluid under
eyelid by placing a test paper under lower lid for 5 minutes; lack of moisture
can also signal Sjogren syndrome.
schisis (retino): (Ophth)
actually properly written as all 1 word, i.e., retinoschisis; meaning
splitting of the retina into 2 layers.
schizoaffective disorder: (Psych) having both
features of schizophrenia and affective disorder.
schizophrenia: (Psych) abnormalities in perception, delusions,
hallucinations, etc.
schizotypal personality disorder: (Psych)
a condition where an individual is eccentric, suspicious, etc.
Schlichter test: (Lab/Infectious Disease) peak and trough levels,
bactericidal, tests efficacy of antibiotics.
Schmorl node: (Ortho/Neuro) intravertebral
disk herniation.
Schneider nail / rod: (Equip) for femoral fractures.
Schneider Shiley
dilatation catheter: (Cardio)
schneiderian First Rank Symptoms of schizophrenia: (Psych) or
Schneider First Rank Symptoms; these symptoms, when present, indicate that the
diagnosis of schizophrenia is likely.
schneiderian papilloma: (ENT) sinonasal lesions, also called inverting papilloma.
Schnur scale / index: compares body surface area and excess breast tissue (AAMT).
Schober test: for spondylitis and lumbar spine range of motion.
Schobinger incision: neck.
Schocket depressor :
(Instrument) eye; sclera.
Schoep’s Ice Cream:
brand name of ice cream, made
in
Schonlein-Henoch purpura / syndrome: (Derm) involves skin purpura, joint aches, abdominal
pains, and renal disease. Also known as Henoch-Schonlein.
Dr Scholl foot care
products: (OTC) brand name.
SchonCath: chronic
dialysis catheter (AAMT 2001).
Schott Fiber Optics: brand
name
Schrock procedure: scapula.
Schuknecht staples / hook
/ wire: (Equip)
Schuhli implant system:
(Ortho) to treat
osteoporosis.
Schuller phenomenon: (Neuro)
In cases of functional hemiplegia the patient usually
turns to the sound side in walking, but to the affected side in case of an
organic lesion.
Schwalbe membrane /
lines: (Ophth) periphery of the
cornea.
schwannoma: (Neuro) a tumor of the peripheral nervous system,
almost always benign, but rare malignant schwannomas have been reported.
Schwartz-Pregenzer procedure:
(Urology/GYN) urethropexy, to
treat incontinence (HPI 2001).
Schweigger capsule
forceps: (Ophth)
Schwinn Airdyne
bike: (PT/Sports Med) brand name stationary exercise bike (spelling came from the
Schwinn website).
sciatic plexus / nerve: (Neuro)
nerves in lumbosacral area which
supplies nerve function to the lower limbs.
SCID: (Abbrev) Structured Clinical Interview for DSM III-R or Severe
Combined Immunodeficiency.
scimitar blade: curved edge.
scintillating sesamoids sign:
(Podiatry) occult compression
injury involving the sesamoid bones of the great toe.
scintillating scotomata: (Ophth/Neuro) flashes or “zig-zagging”
of light in front of eyes; as in the aura before a migraine.
SCIWORA syndrome: acronym for
“spinal cord injury without radiologic abnormality.”
scleredema adultorum: NOTE: It is not “scleroderma” NOR “sclerema” (See
Stedman’s Dictionary) means nonpitting induration of the skin of unknown
etiology.
sclerema neonatorum: NOTE spelling, it is not “scleroderma” NOR
“scleredema” (See Stedman’s Dictionary) severe, sometimes fatal disorder of
adipose tissue occurring chiefly in preterm, sick, or debilitated infants.
scleroderma: (Derm) chronic hardening or thickening of the skin,
may occur with several different disease processes; also called
“dermatosclerosis”.
ScleroLaser: (Equip) Laser
for treatment of telangiectasia/veins of the leg as an alternative procedure to
sclerotherapy.(2002).
sclerosing dysplasia
Sclerosol: (talc
powder) intrapleural aerosol. Indication: prevention of recurrence of malignant
pleural effusions in symptomatic patients. Note: Some press releases use all
caps form, SCLEROSOL INTRAPLEURAL AEROSOL, when referring to this product. Marketed by Bryan Corporation, 1998.
sclerouvectomy
SCN: (Anatomy)
abbreviation for superchiasmatic nucleus (of the
hypothalamus), area which is responsible for circadian rhythms, sleep-wake
cycles.
Scole Alta I / II Holter recorder: (Equip) used
during angioplasty.
scoliosis, types of: levorotatory,
dextrorotoscoliosis, kyphoscoliosis, etc.
SCOOP
transtracheal catheter: used for oxygen delivery; spelling verified via
manufacturer, Transtracheal Systems,
scope-straightening twists and fold-gathering: seen on colonoscopy.
Scorpio
total knee system.
Scotchcast 2 tape
scotty dog appearance / sign: (X-ray) on oblique view, diagnostic for lumbar
spondylolysis, appearance of a small dog on the x-ray view (AAMT 2001).
Scottish Rite brace: hip
orthosis.
scout film:
(X-ray) for procedures requiring
contrast media or dye (i.e., IVP, upper GI, etc.), an x-ray (or scout film) is
taken before the contrast is injected.
Scout monitor:
(Device) bloodless diabetes
screening.
Scribner shunt: connection of artery to cephalic vein.
scrofula: (Pulm) extrapulmonary
TB infection; treat with antibiotics.
scromboid fish poisoning: (GI) from
consumption of mahi-mahi, tuna, mackerel, and other
tropical fish which can contain dangerous biotoxins, even if well cooked. (CDC website).
scrum: A rugby play,
short for “scrummage”, a method of getting the ball in play.
scud: (English; verb) meaning to move quickly, swiftly;
another meaning came out of the Gulf War when referring to a type of missile,
called a “scud missile”.
Scuderi technique: for repair of quadriceps tendon rupture.
Sculptra: (Derm) injectable for
lipoatrophy (poly-L-lactic acid).
scut: meaning trivial, tedious, and unrewarding work
or task, “scut work”.
Scutellaria barbata: (Homeopathy) an
herb used in traditional Chinese medicine, may have
anticancer effects.
scybalum: (GI) hard, dry mass of fecal matter in the intestine
(plural = scybala).
scybalous: adjective form of scybalum. NOTE: Do not confuse with “sibilous”,
pronounced the same.
Scylla and Charybdis, between: a
phrase meaning “between 2 equally perilous alternatives”.
SD surgical
instruments: (Ortho) Special Devices, Inc.
SDT: (Abbrev) speech detection threshold.
Sea-Band: (Homeopathy) OTC acupressure wrist band to help
nausea and in particular, sea sickness.
The company has expanded to also manufacture sleeping aids
Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum: (Homeopathy) OTC
for nausea.
SealEasy mask: resuscitation mask brand name.
Searcy chalazion
trephine: (Ophth/Instrument)
Seasilver:
OTC dietary supplement claims
to cure 650 diseases including cancer and AIDS; FDA and FTC now seizing all
inventories of this product’s remaining supplies because of false claims.
seasonal affective disorder:
(Psych)
SAD, depression caused by lack of sunlight,
usually occurring in winter.
Seasonale: (Rx) levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol; oral birth
control pills, 91-day regimen.
seat belt: Style NOTE: 2 words.
seating: In GYN medical terms, the step to ensure high fundal
placement of an IUD.
sebaceous cyst: (Derm) oil-secreting cyst.
SebaGel: (Derm) topical containing benzoyl peroxide 5%, 10%,
for acne.
Seba-Nil cleanser, mask: (Derm)
for acne.
seborrheic keratosis: (Derm), plural = keratoses; abbreviated as SK, or
sometimes dictated as
“seb
kers”.
Secca system: (Equip) Indication: treatment of fecal incontinence in patients who
have failed more conservative therapy such as diet modification and
biofeedback; outpatient (2001).
secondary fracture: (Ortho)
fracture of bone weakened by disease.
2nd Skin
products: (Derm) brand of pads and bandages for treating blisters and burns,
manufactured by Spenco (Source: MT Desk 1998).
SECP: (Cardio)
sequential external counterpulsation device (external vascular compression), a
treatment aid for myocardial infarction and angina.
sector iridectomy: (Ophth) procedure to remove a segment of the iris.
sector scan echocardiography: (Cardio)
gives a pie-shaped image.
secundiparous: (OB-GYN) having 2 pregnancies producing viable
offspring, or para 2.
secundum: meaning “according to”.
secundum artem: Latin phrase translated as “according to an approved
or professional manner”.
Seddon arthrodesis: wrist.
Sedillot periosteal
elevator: (Instrument/Equip)
seeding, hematogenous:
local spread from contiguous
infections.
segmental fracture: (Ortho) fracture in 2 parts
of same bone.
Segond fracture: (Ortho) knee/tibial plateau.
segue: (verb) pronounced “seg-way”;
meaning to transition or move from one thing to another.
Seinfeld syncope: (Pulm) a condition of hysterical laughter to the point of
causing reduced oxygen to the brain and passing out, a sign of cardiovascular
disease; derived from patients apparently reporting the condition upon watching
“Seinfeld”, a comedy TV show from the 1980s.
seizures, types of:
(Neuro) absence, anosognosic,
atonic, tonic, clonic, tonic-clonic, myoclonic, dileptic, febrile, focal motor,
gelastic, grand mal, jacksonian, partial, petit mal, psychogenic, psychomotor,
versive, etc.
Seldinger technique: (Cardio) cardiac
catheterization.
selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: (Pharm) SSRI,
a class of antidepressant medications.
Select GT: (Device) blood glucose monitoring system for at-home use.
selegiline HCI:
(Rx) generic for Eldepryl and
Emsam, for neurologic conditions, depression
Selig procedure: intrapelvic
obturator neurectomy
sella turcica: (Anatomy) a transverse depression of bone at the
base of the skull, containing the pituitary gland.
Selman clamp
Selverstone carotid
clamp: NOT “silverstone”.
Semb operation
?
semen analysis: (GU) Note spelling: 2 words.
semimembranosus muscle: leg
semimembranous: (adjective) meaning partly membranous
seminal event: a
phrase meaning the starting point or origin.
seminal vesicle: (Urology, Anatomy) glands that help produce semen.
seminoma: a type of cancer of the testicles, may spread to
bone, brain, lung, liver.
semiquantitative scoring system: method of assessing renal pathology, especially related to transplants,
developed by Pirani and Salinas-Madrigal.
semitendinosus muscle: (Anatomy) leg.
Semmes-Weinstein monofilament: (Instrument)
brand name of monofilament used for testing sensation in the feet.
Semont maneuver: (Neuro) a test for vertigo, rapidly move from lying on one
side to the other; also called “liberatory” maneuver.
Semprex-D: (Rx) acrivastine/pseudoephedrine;
antihistamine/decongestant combination.
Senear-Usher
syndrome: (Derm) pemphigus erythematosus.
senega root: (Homeopathy) the root of an herb called Polygala senega; used in
some cultures to treat various medical conditions, including conditions of the
respiratory tract.
Sengstaken-Blakemore
tube: (GI) stops or slows bleeding from esophagus and stomach.
senile macular degeneration: (Ophth) also
called age-related macular degeneration; progressive loss of vision.
senilis, arcus: (Ophth) a cloudy, opaque arc or circle around the
edge of the eye in the elderly.
Senn Weinstein monofilament ?
Senographe digital
mammography: (Radio) produces digital x-rays without film.
Senokot / Senokot-S: OTC
laxative brand.
SenoScan: (Equip) digital
breast mammography.
Sensability Pad: an OTC breast self examination aid, also called BD Sensability Pad, and formerly called “Sensor Pad” (2000).
Sensaire hand-held spirometer: (Device)
Sensipar: (Rx) generic = cinacalcet;
drug for hyperparathyroidism and parathyroid cancer and hypercalcemia.
Sensititre HP panel: (Lab) expanded panel to better determine
sensitivities to antibiotics to include Haemophilus influenzae and
Streptococcus pneumoniae (1997).
sensitive TSH: (Lab) sTSH, measurement of
thyroid gland activity.
sensorineural hearing loss:
(ENT)
Note that some dictators say “neurosensory”.
sensorium: (Neuro) the seat of sensation, the nervous system center
where external impressions are localized and then transformed into sensations
(See Webster’s Dictionary).
sensory hyperesthesia:
(Neuro)
increase in sensitivity to sensory stimuli.
Sentinel urine HIV-1
test: (Lab) Diagnostic test for HIV-1 antibodies in urine (1998).
Sepracoat: (Surgery) hyaluronic
acid used to prevent adhesions by keeping tissue moist before and during
surgeries.
Seprafilm membrane: (Surgery) used
in abdominal surgeries to prevent adhesions.
Sepragel: bioresorbable gel used to prevent adhesions
Sepramesh biosurgical
composite: used in hernia repair.
septate uterus: (OB-GYN) condition where uterus is divided by a septum or
wall; also called bifid uterus.
septic shock: a life-threatening reaction to a severe infection.
Septocaine: (Rx)
articaine 4% and epinephrine 1:100,000, parenteral local anesthetic.
septorhinoplasty: (ENT) surgery to repair or change appearance of
septum and external nose.
SER fracture: (Ortho) supination,
external rotation.
Seracult / Seracult Plus/ Super Seracult: (Lab) test for occult blood in stool samples (1997).
Seradge exercises: (PT/OT) for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Serevent Diskus: (Rx )
generic = salmeterol; 12-hour control of
asthma (FDA 1998).
seriation tests: (Neuro) measure ability to understand sequences of events.
SERM: (Pharm) selective
estrogen receptor modulator; a class of drugs; includes Evista, raloxifene,
idoxifene, etc.; drugs that act like estrogen on some tissues but blocks
effects of estrogen on other tissues.
seroconversion:
development of antibodies in
the serum.
seroma: a mass caused by localized accumulation of serum in
tissue.
seromatous: seroma-like.
seromuscular suture
Serostim: (Rx) somatropin; growth hormone given for wasting
disease, AIDS.
serotonin uptake inhibitor:
(Pharm)
a class of drugs, antidepressants.
serotype, serotyping
serous cystadenocarcinoma:
(Onc)
serous otitis media: (ENT/Condition) middle ear
infection
serpiginous: creeping, wavy, serpent-like (Stedman’s).
Serralene suture (2002)
nonabsorbable polypropylene.
Serralnyl suture
(2002) nonabsorbable polyamide.
Serralsilk suture
(2002) nonabsorbable silk.
Servoventilator
Servox speech aid
sessile polyp: broad-based polyp
sestamibi perfusion scan: (Cardio) also called “MIBI”, a scan to determine heart flow problems
using a technetium-based agent, injected prior to the study (sestamibi).
sestamibi stress test (Cardio): sestamibi is also
called “MIBI”, a technetium-based agent injected prior to the stress test.
S.E.T. catheter:
thrombectomy system
SET oximeter: (Pulm/Device) signal
extraction technology; especially useful for patients with weak pulses.
setaceous: having bristles, bristle-like
setting sun sign: (Symptom/Ophth) aka, sunset eyes; downward gaze to
the point of resembling a setting sun.
severe acute respiratory syndrome: SARS;
see above.
SEWHO: (Acronym)
for shoulder-elbow-wrist-hand orthosis.
Sezary syndrome: (Derm) A form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a
cancerous disease that affects the skin. Note: Sezary
was a French dermatologist in the 1800s.
SF 5000 Plus dental
cream: (Dental) By
prescription only (dentist), cream for sensitive teeth.
SHAFT syndrome: (Psych)
consisting of being sad, hostile, anxious, frustrated, and tenacious.
shagreen skin / patch: (Derm) resembling shark skin, hard, granular plaques, usually on the
low back.
Shaklee products: A
line of health and wellness products including vitamins and supplements, along
with household and personal care products sold “door to door” or out of one’s
home. Some of Shaklee’s products include MoodLift, CarotoMax, CorEnergy, CoQHeart, Defend & Resist, Vita-Lea, etc. See Shaklee
web page for more information on products.
Shakti Books: (Business)
local book store at
Shallcross tonsil
hemostat: (Instruments)
sham therapy: an inactive treatment or procedure intended to mimic
as closely as possible a legitimate therapy; also called placebo therapy.
Sharpey fibers:
collagenous, perforating fibers.
Sharplan lasers: (Equip) a
line of laser systems, Sharplan SilkTouch laser for hair transplantation procedures (1996).
“sharps”: (slang)
referring to needles.
SharpShooter system: (Equip) used
in tissue repair technique of the meniscus (2000).
Sharrard transfer: (or
Sharrard procedure) posterior transfer of iliopsoas.
shea butter: (Derm) ingredient used in moisturizers and skin creams.
Shea classification: (Derm)
grading system of pressure ulcers.
Shea drill: (ENT)
Shea tube: (ENT)
ears.
shear fracture: physics
term
shear modulus: physics term
shearing forces: physics term
Shearing intraocular
lens: (Ophth)
Sheehan osteotome
Sheehan syndrome: (
Sheehy ventilation tube: (ENT) for
ears.
Sheehy-House
powder insufflator.
SHEENT: (Abbrev) in physical exam,
includes skin, head, eyes, ears, nose, throat.
Shenton line: (Radio) a
normal finding on hip x-ray; disrupted in cases of dislocation or fracture.
Sheets
glide/cannula: (Instruments) for eye surgery.
shelf procedure: hip
shell eye implant
Shellgel: (sodium hyaluronate) a viscoelastic product to
protect eye tissue and maintain eye shape during ophthalmic surgeries (2001).
SHEP: (Acronym) Systolic
Hypertension of the Elderly Program.
Shepard cannula: (Ophth)
Shepard Teflon tube: (ENT)
shepherd’s crook deformity:
of proximal femur.
sherbet: a frozen confection. NOTE: it is not “sherbert”,
even though commonly mispronounced as this.
Shiatsu massage:
Shier prosthesis: knee
shifting dullness: (GI) phrase meaning a sign of free peritoneal fluid, dullness of
percussion shifts as patient is turned from side to side.
shift left: (Lab) or left shift, increase in percentage of
immature cells in blood.
shift right: (Lab) or right shift, the absence of immature cells.
shiitake: (Alt Med/Horticulture) type of black mushroom; contain a
cholesterol-reducing agent, also used in Japanese and macrobiotic diets.
shin splints: pain at the front of the lower leg, usually from
running.
SHIP implant: (Acronym) Sgarlato
Hammertoe Implant Prosthesis.
Shirley sump drain: wound
drain.
Shirodkar-Page cerclage: or
Shirodkar operation.
Shodair Children’s Hospital:
(Place)
shoe cookies: (Pod) scaphoid pads, also called arch cookies, metatarsal
cookies.
short bowel syndrome(SBS):
(GI)
occurs whenever the functions of the
small bowel have been removed from the body by disease or surgery.
“short
shrift”: a phrase meaning little attention or
consideration in dealing with a person or matter.
sho-saiko-to: (Herbal) A Japanese formulation of seven Chinese herbs
marketed as a dietary supplement under the name Liver Kampo
used to maintain liver function.
shotty lymph nodes: Note spelling: NOT “shoddy”.
shoulder girdle: soft tissue around glenohumeral joint.
shoulder pointer: tearing of deltoid muscle.
shrapnel: refers to any fragment or debris propelled by an
explosion.
Shuck test: (Ortho) hand/wrist; AKA, Reagan test.
Shur-Clens: wound
cleanser (Source: Stedman’s Surgical Word Book & Mfg
website, ConvaTec).
shuttlecock:
(Sport) technical name for
the “birdie” in badminton.
Shy-Drager syndrome: (Neuro) a
progressive disorder of the central and sympathetic nervous systems.
SI: (Abbrev) snoring index;
used in sleep studies.
SIADH: (Endocrine)
syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone.
SI/AHI: (Abbrev) snoring
index/apnea-hypopnea index, on sleep studies, usually followed by a score.
sialogogue: (Pharm) an agent or drug that improves the flow or production
of saliva.
sibilant / sibilous rhonchi: (Pulm)
high-pitched breath or lung sounds. NOTE: Do not confuse this with “scybalous”.
Sichel iris knife: (Ophth/Instruments)
sickling sign, conjunctival:
(Hem)
seen in sickle cell disease; also called
conjunctival sign of sickling.
sick sinus syndrome:
(Cardio) also called
bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome, abnormalities or defect of the sinus node.
SICOR: cardiac
catheterization system.
side/supine apnea-hypopnea index: (Pulm) on sleep studies, usually followed by a score of
occurrences per hour.
sideropenic anemia: (Hem) associated with bleeding disorders, sideropenia means
iron deficiency.
sideropenic dysphagia
Siemens Lithostar: used
to disintegrate kidney stones, lithotripter.
Siffert-Foster-Nachammie procedure ? : for clubfoot.
sight: vision (site means a location; cite is
a verb and means to refer to or give a citation to).
signal-average ECG:
(Cardio) AKA, SAECG;
procedure used to predict cardiac events.
signal transduction inhibitors: (Onc) a family of drugs that prevent the ability of cancer
cells to multiply quickly and invade other tissues.
signet ring cell carcinoma:
(Onc) highly
malignant type of cancer typically found in lining of digestive organs
SIGRA: OTC dietary supplement which claims to increase
stamina and performance; FDA has put out a warning on this product because it
contains a prescription drug, which may be harmful to some people; other
products made by same company are Stamina Rx, Spontane
ES, Uroprin (2003).
SIL: (OB-GYN)
abbreviation for squamous intraepithelial lesion.
silent chest: (Pulm) severe limitation in
air flow.
silent coronary artery disease: (Cardio) produces none of the characteristic
signs/symptoms.
silent myocardial infarction: (Cardio) or silent
MI, see silent coronary artery disease above.
Silent Night: (Device/Pulm) Diagnostic device to screen for obstructive sleep
apnea (Manufactured by ResMed & Local Silence
1997) NOTE: See also Silent Nite below.
Silent Nite: A
brand name external device to reduce snoring (manufactured by American White
Cross, Inc), NOTE: See Silent Night above.
silent reflux: or
silent gastroesophageal reflux.
Silesian belt suspension:
for maintaining prosthesis position,
mainly hips.
Silfverskiold procedure: knee, ankle
Silipos sleeve: for
carpal tunnel (Manufactured by Silipos).
Silisoft contact lens:
(Ophth)
silk sign: (GI) when the lower abdominal wall is palpated and
rolled perpendicular to the inguinal canal, the peritoneum feels like silk
(inguinal hernia).
Silver bunionectomy:
(Pod) toe/foot surgery.
Silver chisel /
osteotome: (Instruments)
silver-fork deformity / fracture: results
in forearm/wrist angling like the backward curve of a fork.
silver nitrate cautery:
(Hem)
Silverman needle: for biopsies,
also called Franklin-Vim-Silverman needle.
Silver Pen: insulin
infusion device (2001).
Silver-Russell syndrome: (SRS)
genetic, growth disorders before birth, asymmetry or overgrowth on one side of
the body, unusual facial features; AKA, Russell-Silver syndrome.
Simcoe lens
: (Ophth)
simian crease / line:
in the palm, a single crease
running across the palm, rather than 2 separate creases.
Similac: (Peds) OTC baby formula brand.
Simmonds test:
(Pod) for Achilles tendon rupture; also
called Thompson test.
Simon vaginal
speculum: (Instrument)
Simplesse: a
fat replacement product added to foods.
Simplex P and C
cement: (Surgery) for arthroplasty.
Simply Saline: (ENT) OTC
nasal moisturizer spray (2002)
Simply Stuffy: (ENT) OTC
tablets, nasal decongestant (2002).
Simpson AtheroCath: (Cardio)
device to shave atheromatous plaque from vessel walls.
Simpson splint: (Equip)
Sims curet, retractor,
speculum: (Instrument)
Simulect
: (Rx)
generic = basiliximab; drug for acute organ transplant rejection (FDA 1998).
simvastatin:
(Rx) generic for Zocor; drug
to reduce cholesterol.
sincalide cholecystography:
(Test)
sincalide is the agent injected to
stimulate pancreatic secretion for analysis.
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson
disease: patella.
Sinex nasal spray: (ENT) OTC brand name nasal spray decongestant
Sinex 12-Hour
Long-Acting: (ENT) OTC brand name decongestant.
sine qua non: (Latin) translated phrase meaning an essential thing
or an indispensable condition.
Singh index: (Test) of
osteoporosis, looking at radiographs of trabecular patterns in proximal femur,
graded from 1 to 6; a Singh index of less than 3 was shown to correlate with
fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist.
single photon absorptiometry (SPA): (Test)
assesses cortical bone in the forearm.
single-toothed tenaculum: (Instruments) NOTE: not “single-tooth”.
Singley intestinal clamp
/ forceps: (Instruments)
Singulair: (Rx) generic = montelukast sodium; oral tablets for
treatment of asthma (FDA March 2000).
“singulotomy”: NO—should
be cingulotomy.
sinobronchitis: (ENT) also
called sonobronchitis.
sinodural angle: head.
sinonasal polyposis: (ENT) condition of multiple
polyps of nasal cavity and sinuses.
Sinskey hook: (Instruments)
Sinskey intraocular
lens: (Ophth)
SinuCleanse: (ENT) OTC sinus irrigation system, see www.sinucleanse.com
SinuSeal resorbable nasal
packing: (ENT) used to control bleeding following sinus
surgery.
sinusoidal spaces: in tunica albuginea.
Sioux: (History) American
Indian tribes west of the
Sippy cup: (Peds) a toddler’s drinking cup with a lid and small opening
to sip liquid out of.
SIRA (selective
imidazoline receptor agonist): A class of drugs, which affects the sympathetic
nervous system.
site: (English) meaning a location (see cite and sight
also).
SiteSelect™: Percutaneous
incisional breast biopsy system indicated for removal of a single, intact tissue
sample for faster, less invasive diagnosis of suspicious breast lesions (1998).
situs inversus: (Condition/Cardio) reversal of position or location.
situs inversus viscerum: (Condition/GI)
inversion, transposition of the viscera.
sitz bath: a very shallow water bath, used for a variety of
conditions.
Sitzmarks® radiopaque
markers: Used in conjunction with plain abdominal radiographs
(together, may be referred to as a Sitzmarks test) as an aid in
diagnosing hypomotility or outlet abnormality in patients with constipation but
otherwise negative GI evaluations (1997).
Sivash prosthesis: hip
SJM Biflex
annuloplasty ring: St Jude Medical.
SJM Rosenkranz
pediatric retractor system: St Jude Medical.
SJM
SJM Tailor annuloplasty
ring: St Jude
Medical.
Sjogren syndrome: (Rheum) an autoimmune disorder causing dry mouth, dry eyes,
rheumatologic problems; see Stedman’s Medical Dictionary for more info.
Sjogren reticular dystrophy:
(Ophth) rare inherited
condition of the eye.
skate skiing: (Sport) form of cross country skiing using skinny
skis and an ice skating style.
Skelid: (Rx) generic =
tiludronate disodium; oral bisphosphonate for treatment of Paget disease
(1997).
Skene glands: (OB/GYN) urethral glands,
female.
Skene uterine spoon: (Instrument)
skid: (Instruments/Orthopedics).
skier’s thumb / tear:
(Ortho)
rupture of ulnar collateral ligament of
thumb, done most often while downhill skiing.
skin-equivalent tissue
skin flora
skinny needle: (Instrument) also called
skinny needle biopsy.
Skinvisible: (Derm)
hypoallergenic hand lotion provides a skin barrier that protects against the
transmission of nosocomial infections and absorption of noxious chemicals.
skip lesions: of Crohn disease, separated by segments of normal
mucosa.
skive: (verb) meaning to slice or cut in thin slices.
skiving knife: shaving knife.
Skoal tobacco: a brand of chewing tobacco.
Skoog
reconstruction: (Surgery) technique used in many types of surgeries.
SLAC: scapholunate
advanced collapse.
slag: Two possible meanings, (1) a piece of metal, also
called “scoria”, the waste product of welding or smelting, or (2) the porous,
solidified lava ejected from a volcano.
slapped cheek appearance:
(Symptom) reddened cheeks, as
in fifth disease.
sleep hygiene
Sleepscan™ Traveler®
ambulatory polysomnography system: Miniaturized computer that records physiological
activity used to diagnose sleep disorders.
sleeve clot: fibrin sheath which originates at the point of the
intimal injury where the catheter enters the vein.
slide plate: long bone fracture.
Slinky catheter: (Cardio)
used in PTCA.
sling and swathe technique: immobilizes
shoulder and upper arm.
slipper cast
slip-slap-slop recommendations:
(Derm) sun protection
reminder; slip on a t-shirt, slap on a hat, slop on sunscreen.
slit lamp: (Ophth) used for examining the eye. NOTE: Stedman’s
also lists spelling as 1 word, slitlamp, assume either is acceptable.
Slocum procedure: (Ortho) pes
transfer.
Slocum test: (Ortho)
to diagnose injury to the knee.
Slo-Niacin: OTC niacin brand, slow release.
Slow-K: (Rx) potassium chloride.
slow wave sleep: (Pulm) phrase used in sleep study, a phase of sleep.
Sluder-Ballenger tonsillectome: (Instruments).
Sluder-Demarest tonsillectome:
(Instruments).
Sluder-Jansen mouth
gag: (Equipment/Instruments).
Sluder-Sauer
tonsillectome: (Instruments)
slurring of QRS: (Cardio) EKG finding.
small-bowel follow through:
(Style NOTE: hyphenate
“follow-through” only if used as an adjective, i.e., small bowel follow-through
procedure, etc) .
small-bowel meal.
small corks test: with eyes closed, patient is told to pass corks
consecutively (by size) and estimate the number, assesses higher sensory and
intellectual function.
small square-groove silicone.
Smart
chalazion forceps.
smart laser: can recognize normal intimal tissue.
smart loop: Electrosurgical device for cutting and simultaneous
coagulation of tissue.
SMAS level: (Plastic
Surgery) superficial musculoaponeurotic system.
SMAST: Short
Smedberg drill
Smeloff-Cutter aortic
valve
Smillie knife /
meniscotome / nail: arthroscopy.
Smillie test: (Ortho/knee)
Rotation of the body and femur elicits a crack in damaged meniscus when the
patient stands on the affected leg with knee straight.
Smith antigen,
autoantibody: (Lab) abbreviated as Sm,
also anti-Smith antibody, anti-Sm.
Smith fracture: wrist.
Smith prosthesis: Silastic.
Smith-Boyce
procedure: renal.
Smith-Lemli-Opitz
syndrome: multiple congenital anomalies, mental retardation,
unusual facies, genital abnormalities.
Smith-Fisher
cataract knife.
Smith-Petersen
arthrodesis: wrist.
Smith-Petersen
gouge: (Orthopedics/Instruments).
Smith-Riley
syndrome: symptoms include multiple hemangiomas, macrocephaly, blurred optic discs.
Smith-Robinson
procedure: (Ortho) anterior spinal fusion.
Smithwick nerve
hook: (Instruments).
SmoothBeam: (Derm) laser brand.
SNAC: scapholunate
nonunion advanced collapse.
SNAP: sensory
nerve action potential.
SNAP test: screening
for sleep apnea by measuring loudness of snoring in decibels, which can
indicate the degree and severity of sleep apnea present, done at home. (SNAP
Labs is marketing the test); more info at http://www.snoreinfo.com/
snap-gauge monitor: (Test/Urology)
nocturnal erections monitor, used to help diagnose impotence.
snapping tendon: (Condition) usually describing triceps or iliotibial
band in hip, but also Achilles tendon or index extensor tendon in the hands,
usually requires surgical correction.
Snarecoil: (Instruments).
Sneddon-Champion
syndrome: (Derm) livedo reticularis and cerebrovascular lesions
with livedo involved in all extremities and the trunk, etc.
Sneddon-Wilkinson
disease: (Derm) chronic recidivating pustulous
dermatosis of unknown origin.
Snellen test: (Ophth)
The common black and white eye chart with varying
sizes of letters arranged in rows, with the largest letters on top and getting
smaller with each successive row, a simple way to measure visual acuity.
Snitz clamp: (Ortho)
Snore Aid Plus: oral appliance prescribed by dentist to help stop
snoring.
Snore-Ezzer: mouth
device prescribed by dentist or physician to stop snoring.
Snore Fix: OTC spray (2001) to treat snoring.
Snoremaster: snore therapy.
Snore No More: Herbal
remedy to stop snoring, nasal spray, OTC.
snoreplasty: (Procedure/ ENT) also called injection snoreplasty, the soft palate is injected with a
sclerotherapy medication.
Snore-X: Mouth
guard to help stop snoring.
snout reflex: in infants, when a tongue blade is placed against
closed lips, an abnormal response would be an involuntary pout.
Snowman speculum: (OB-GYN).
snuffbox, anatomic: (Anatomy) Located in the hand, near the thumb,
between extensor pollicis longus and brevis tendons.
Snugs: tapeless wound care products, leg wrap, arm wrap,
mastectomy wrap, etc.
Snyder Hemovac: (Equip)
used for hysterectomy.
Soaker catheter: trademarked
name of a continuous infusion catheter used to deliver anesthesia for
postoperative pain. (2000).
SOAP format: Dictating
technique, Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan.
soap bubble pattern:
on x-ray, ridge of residual
cortex.
SOAR Case Management:
(local agency) SOAR Case Management, Mental Health Center of
Dane County, 1810 South Park Street, Madison, WI 53713-0409, (608)
287-0839. President = Jenifer Koberstein (2005). Agency that assists young people, ages 18-21
primarily transition from adolescence to adulthood, assisting with independence
and responsibility education.
sodium iodide I-131: for
hyperthyroidism.
Sodium Sulamyd: (sulfacetamide
sodium) Rx treatment of eye inflammations and infections; available in eye
drops and ointment.
sodium, tyropanoate:
oral cholecystographic agent
Sofield procedure: (Ortho)
osteotomies of leg; intramedullary fixation with rodding.
Soflex intraocular lens: (Ophth)
foldable IOL used for cataract surgery.
Sofpulse: device that uses pulsed magnetic energy (PME) to
treat pain and edema in soft tissue injuries and to accelerate and improve
revascularization.
Sofsilk suture: Nonabsorbable
silk suture used in cardiovascular, ophthalmic, microsurgery and neural tissue
(1998).
Sof-Tact: alternate
site diabetes monitor, allowing patients to take blood samples from less
sensitive areas than the finger tips (2001).
Softgel: a
1-piece, hermetically sealed, soft gelatin shell containing medication, tamper
proof.
SoftLight laser: (Derm) used for skin
resurfacing and hair removal (1998).
Softscan laser scanner:
(Derm) used to treat soft
tissue, ablation, vaporization, coagulation (Mfg = Sahar Technologies, 1997).
SoftSpec speculum: disposable
plastic vaginal speculum (2002).
soggy butt syndrome:
unflattering
term to describe common side effect of
zidovudine, involves fatigue, weight loss, increased CPK levels, and
electromyographic images indicative of myositis, loss of muscle mass can reach
50-60% in the legs and pelvis.
Solage: (Rx)
mequinol 2%, tretinoin 0.01%; pronounced “so-la-jay”; treatment of solar
lentigines (FDA 1999).
Solaray: (OTC) OTC brand name line of herbal
remedies, i.e., Solaray black cohosh, Solaray CranActin,
Solaray CalMag Citrate, etc., see www.solaray.com for more info.
Solaraze: (Rx)
generic = diclofenac sodium 3%; topical gel for actinic keratoses (FDA 2000). NOTE:
Use this spelling; it is marketed as “Solarase” in
sole of foot: also called plantar surface.
solenoid: conductor, switch, valve.
Solera thrombectomy catheter: used to remove blood clots from hemodialysis access
grafts (2001).
soleus muscle: (Anatomy) One of the 2 muscles making up the calf of
the left, the other is the gastrocnemius; together can be referred to as
gastrocsoleus complex.
Solganal: (aurothioglucose)
Rx, gold complex product for arthritis.
Soliris:
(Rx) generic = eculizumab; for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.
Solosite: a nonsterile hydrogel that
provides moist wound healing, also found as SoloSite.
Soltamox:
(Rx) generic = tamoxifen; for
breast cancer.
somatization: having somatoform disorder.
somatoform disorder: (Condition) preoccupation with disease, anxiety,
patient does not realize they are doing it, so they are not considered “faking”
condition, also called hypochondria.
SOMATOM Volume Zoom: CT,
aids physician in monitoring coronary artery disease and grafts following CABG.
somatomedin A, C: (Lab) peptides, somatomedin C also called IGF-1.
somatosensory evoked potentials:
(Test/Neuro) SSEP,
computer-averaged cortical and subcortical responses to repetitive stimulation
of peripheral nerve sensory fibers.
somatosensory response: (Neuro)
somatostatin analogue protocol
Somavert: (Rx)
generic = pegvisomant; treatment for acromegaly, growth hormone disorder (FDA
2003).
Somer tonsil knife
Somer uterine clamp / forceps
somersault: (Athletics) very basic
gymnastic move, rolling heels over head.
SOMI brace: sterno-occipital-mandibular
immobilizer; holds neck in straight line with spine providing rigid support.
Sommers compression dressing
Somnoplasty: A
treatment for snoring and sleep apnea; registered trademark name, so capitalize
(2001).
Somogyi method: (Lab)
DNS method (dinitrosalicyclic acid) used to assay for
product sugars.
Somogyi reflex /
phenomenon: (Endocrinology) rebound
phenomenon in diabetes, also called posthypoglycemia
hyperglycemia.
Sonata: (zaleplon)
Rx oral capsule, medication for insomnia (see http://www.sonatasleep.com/ for more
info; 1999).
Sones technique: coronary
arteriography.
sonobronchitis
sonohysterogram: (Test/OB-GYN) A specialized ultrasound exam utilizing
contrast media to enhance visualization of the endocervical canal and
endometrial cavity.
Sonolith Praktis lithotripter:
For treatment of stones in the kidneys and
ureters (HPI 2001).
Sonopsy ultrasound: A
3D ultrasound for breast biopsy (1997).
Sonoran Life Zone: (Botany/Life Science) Located in southern California,
Arizona, and Texas; according to US Forest Service, a Life Zone is a unique
grouping of plants and animals which can be found at different elevations,
given that for every 1,000 feet of elevation, the temperature drops
approximately 3 degrees, along with varying degrees of precipitation, so you
will find different species of plants and animals at 2,000 feet than you will
at 5,000 feet, etc.
sonorous rhonchi: (Pulm) low-pitched breath
sounds.
Soothe-N-Seal™: A
cyanoacrylate adhesive product for the treatment of canker sores. FDA approved
for OTC market (1999).
Soothies: glycerin gel pads used by nursing mothers to relieve
nipple pain.
Sorbothane inserts: product line
of footwear inserts, includes Sorbo-Lite, SorboAir, Sorbogel, Sorbo-Heel, Sorbogel
Heel.
Soresi cannula ?
Soriatane: (Rx) generic = acitretin; treatment for psoriasis.
sotalol HCI: (Med)
generic for Betapace, Rx tablets for treatment of ventricular arrhythmia.
sour brash: (GI) regurgitation of a sour tasting acid from the
stomach (sometimes called water brash, although that means simply a
regurgitation of a watery acid from the stomach).
source and sink regions:
(Cardio)
Southern
Southwick procedure: (Ortho) osteotomy for slipped capital
femoral epiphysis.
Soutter-Campbell slide ?
Sovereign bipolar
instruments: brand name of product line of forceps, scissors,
etc., used in gynecologic laparoscopic procedures.
space shoes: specially constructed for foot deformities, may have
extra large toe box or extra depth.
spacers and enders: (OB-GYN/Fertility) “spacers” are couples who want 1-2 more
children, “enders” are couples who have all the
children they want.
Space-OR self-retaining
retractor: (Instruments) used in abdominal procedures.
Space-Saver volumetric
pump: (Equip) infusion pump for delivery of total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
sparfloxacin:
(Rx) generic for Zagam;
antibiotic particularly for lung infections.
spasmogenic phase: particularly in asthma
SpaTouch™ PhotoEpilation
system: (Equip/Derm)) Laser/light system for long-term hair
removal (2000).
specific gravity: (Lab) weight of substance compared to the weight of
an equal volume of water; done as a test on urine; normal range 1.020-1.030
g/mL.
specious: (adjective) meaning having a deceptive attraction or
allure, having a false look of genuineness or truth (noun = speciousness;
adverb = speciously).
speckle interferometry:
(Cardio) A laser beam is
utilized for illumination of blood flow in capillaries; the speckle pattern is
derived from the speckling of the beam.
speckled pattern: of myocardium on echocardiography.
SPECT scan: single
photon emission computed tomography; myocardial perfusion scan; see also “gated
SPECT scan”.
SPECTamine: iofetamine HCI iodine 123, used with SPECT system to
assess the effects of stroke.
Spectracef:
(cefditoren pivoxil) Rx, 200-mg tablets, broad-spectrum cephalosporin
antibiotic (FDA 2001).
spectral heart rate
Spectrax pacemaker
Spectrocin Plus
ointment: OTC topical antibiotic/anesthetic.
speculoscopy: (Procedure) for visualizing vagina and cervix during
pelvic exams (1998).
speech discrimination testing: to
determine how well one can discriminate or distinguish words presented at
comfortable levels; a list of words are presented, and the patient is required
to repeat them back.
speech treshold testing: to find out how softly one can hear and understand
speech; words are presented through the audiometer at decreasing levels,
threshold determined by the softest level that can be correctly identified at
least 50% of the time.
Speed osteotomy: (Ortho) of the radius. ?
Speed procedure: (Ortho)
sternoclavicular. ?
Spence, tail of: (Anatomy) part of the axilla.
Spencer Wells forceps: (Instruments)
Spenco: brand
name line of orthopedic/podiatry products; Spenco neoprene, Spenco Polysorb,
Spenco insole, etc.
SPEP: (Abbrev/Lab) serum protein electrophoresis; test on blood or
urine to help diagnose a variety of conditions and diseases; intestinal or
kidney conditions, impaired nutrition, liver dysfunction, immune system
dysfunction, and fluid-retaining conditions, etc.
Sperma-Tex mesh: Knitted polypropylene mesh indicated for repair of
inguinal hernia defects (FDA 1999).
sphenoid sinus: (Anatomy) sinuses between the eyes, behind the bridge
of the nose.
Spherocentric knee
prosthesis
spica cast: as in thumb spica cast or hip spica cast, used to
immobilize, normally covering the surrounding areas as well.
spider: (Biology) two poisonous types in
the
Spielberger State-Trait
Personality Inventory: (Psych) measures changes in anxiety and anger.
Spiffies:
(Dental) OTC dental wipes for
infants early as 4 months old, wipe gums or teeth to prevent decay, contains
Xylitol; more info at www.spiffies.com
spigelian hernia (Condition)
ventrolateral wall hernia.
spike to spike pacer rate:
(Cardio)
spinae (erector) muscles:
(Anatomy) lower back muscle;
it is actually only 1 muscle, but consists of 3 layers; iliocostalis,
longissimus, and spinalis layers.
spinal accessory nerve:
11th cranial
nerve.
spindle cell sarcoma
spin echo MRI
SpineCATH: catheter for use in IDET therapy.
spinothalamic tract: (Anatomy)
Spira procedure: biceps ?
spiral CT scan: scan in which the machine rotates rapidly around the
body taking images, highly sensitive (2001).
spiral fracture: (Condition) torsion or twist fracture.
Spiriva Handihaler: (Rx)
tiotropium bromide inhalation powder, for COPD, pulmonary conditions (2004).
SpiroFlo: (Equip) prostate
stent for treatment of temporary urethral obstruction (HPI 2000).
Spiroscan 2000: (Equip)
computerized spirometer (Mfg = Brentwood Instruments).
spit cyst: mucocele; cyst formed by the obstruction of the duct
of the minor salivary glands deeper in the lip.
Spittler procedure: biceps
muscle cineplasty to control externally powered prosthesis.
splanchnic circulation: gastric blood flow; splanchnic means affecting or
pertaining to the viscera.
Splenda: A brand name of no-calorie sweetener, contains sugar
(dextrose, maltodextrin, sucralose), sold in food
stores in the
splenic flexure: (Anatomy/GI)
splenius cervicis muscle:
(Anatomy)
splinter hemorrhage: fine linear, brownish subungual streaks
split-night CPAP study: (Pulm) sleep study, first
half of night monitor for sleep apnea, second half use CPAP to see what level
improves sleep.
split-vein renin sampling: (Lab)
spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia: (Condition) disorder of growth.
spongiform encephalopathy (Condition)
Spontane ES:
OTC dietary supplement
claiming to enhance stamina and performance; FDA has now put out a warning on product
because it contains a prescription drug which may be harmful to some people;
other products from same manufacturer include Stamina RX, SIGRA, Uroprin (2003).
spoon forceps: (Equipment)
Sporanox: (itraconazole)
Rx capsules, antifungal, uses “pulse dose” regimen for nail fungus, packaged in
this way it is referred to as Sporanox PulsePak (1997). Sporanox
injection is used for IV treatment of systemic fungal infections;
histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and refractory aspergillosis (1999). Sporanox
oral solution is used for treatment of oropharyngeal and esophageal
candidiasis (1997).
Sporox II
disinfectant: Liquid chemical germicide for high-level disinfection
of medical equipment (1999).
“Sports Stretch” : a book by Michael Alter, sometimes referred reading
to patients with sports injuries.
SPOT: (Abbrev/Oncology) sonographic planning of oncology treatment
sprain: injury to a
ligament (see strain).
SPREAD: acronym
for 4 keystones of rehabilitation:
S = specific diagnosis and
treatment of underlying disease.
P = prevention of secondary
disability resulting largely from immobility and disuse.
RE = restoration of as much
function as possible.
AD = adaptation to
persisting impairments by patient, family, and environment.
Sprengel deformity:
(Ortho) asymmetry of the
scapula with rotation and elevation.
spring test: (Ortho) knee.
spring hook-wire needle:
for breast biopsy.
sprinter’s fracture
spurious spongiosa
Spurling Kerrison rongeur
(Instruments)
Spyrogel dressing: An OTC wound and burn dressing for superficial wounds
(1999).
squalamine: drug for treatment of advanced ovarian cancer and
non-small cell lung disease.
squamocolumnar junction
squamous cell carcinoma
squared-off sign: normally
round contour of shoulder is flat.
square root pattern:
on hemodynamic monitoring.
square-shaped wrist test: to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome; square-shaped
wrists are considered a predisposing factor for the development of CTS; also
called thenar weakness test. (Source: American Journal of
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 1998).
SQUID: superconductive quantum interference device; measures the biomagnetic fields generated
by electrical energy that flows throughout the nervous system
squint surgery: (Ophth)
surgery to correct misalignment of the eyes, strabismus, crossed eyes, etc.
SRS: Silver-Russell syndrome; genetic, growth disorders
before birth, asymmetry or overgrowth on one side of the body, unusual facial
features; AKA, Russell-Silver syndrome.
SRT: (ENT) speech reception threshold (audiometric testing, see speech
threshold testing above).
SSRI: selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors; a class of drugs for treatment of depression.
SST orthopedic nail: (Equipment).
St Jude Medical prosthetic heart valve: also
called “SJM”; St Jude Medical has developed several
different medical devices.
stabilocondylar knee prosthesis ?
Stack/ Stax splint: (Orthopedics/Devices) finger splints; reference books
(i.e., HPI Ortho Word Book, 2nd Ed.) seem to prefer “Stax”, however,
there are also several online companies that list and show pictures of the
“Stack” Finger Splints from Bird & Cronin, Inc. As best I can tell, the
splint shape and purpose for both is the same, so either should be acceptable
spellings until further notice.
staghorn calculus: (Renal) calculus occurring in renal pelvis with branches
extending into the infundibula and calyces.
Stahli line: (Ophth) pigmented lines of the cornea; also called Hudson-Stahli line.
Stage
1/ Stage 2/ Stage 3, etc: cancer
stages; as of 2000, use numbers instead of Roman numerals; also Stage 1B, etc.
Stalevo: (Rx) carbidopa/levodopa/entacapone; for Parkinson
disease.
Stamey ureteral
catheter: (Uro)
for cystoscopy.
Stamina Rx: OTC dietary supplement which FDA has put out a
warning on for consumers not to buy or use because it contains a prescription
drug which may be harmful to some people (2003); other products from same
company include SIGRA, Spontane ES, Uroprin.
Stamm procedure: (GU)
to treat urinary incontinence in women.
stamp test: (Uro) a crude snap-gauge
test to measure nocturnal penile tumescence to aid in diagnosing impotence.
STAN S31: (Equip) fetal heart monitor, particularly monitors
the fetal ECG for signs of problems during labor.
Stanford Health
Assessment Questionnaire: also called HAQ or Health Assessment Questionnaire; a
self-report of functional status, used widely with arthritis, but many other
conditions as well, gives a comprehensive measure of outcome of disease.
Stanford Sleepiness
Scale: (Test) a scale to assess how alert you are feeling.
Stanicor Lambda demand
pacemaker: (Cardio)
stanine: (Statistics) short for “standard 9”; one of the
methods used to report educational test scores, from a low of 1 to a high of 9,
so that parents and teachers can compare an individual student’s performance
with those of other students taking the same class or test.
stannous fluoride: (Dental) for dental caries prophylaxis, topical
treatment.
stapedius muscle: (Anatomy) Located in the posterior wall of the middle
ear space.
stapes superstructure: (Anatomy/ear)
upper part of the stapes
staphylococcal meningitis
Staphylococcus
warneri: (Lab) organism causing
conditions such as pediatric bacteriemia.
staplers, types of: circular, EEA, GIA, linear, TA 30, TA 55, TA 90, etc.
Staples arthrodesis: elbow
Staples-Black-Brostrom procedure: ankle
stare phenomenon
Stargardt disease: (Ophth)
inherited condition, progressive decrease in central vision in both eyes at a
young age, also called juvenile macular degeneration.
Starlix: (nateglinide)
Rx oral medication for type 2 diabetes (2001).
Starr-Edwards
pacemaker.
startle test: (
stasis dermatitis: scaly, greasy-looking skin on the lower legs, usually
on inner calf.
Stat 2 Pumpette: (Equipment)
IV controller.
Statham pressure
transducer: (Instrument) also called Gulton-Statham
transducer.
static tendon transfer
stationary: (adjective) meaning still, not moving (i.e.,
stationary bike).
stationery: (noun) writing paper.
status post: (phrase) Style NOTE:
not hyphenated.
Staude-Moore forceps:
(Instruments/OB-GYN).
Stax / Stack splint: See
“Stack splint” above for info.
St Clare Hospital: (Place)
707 14th Street, Baraboo, WI 53913; see http://www.stclare.com/
steakhouse syndrome: acute dysphagia and chest pain during a meal,
relieved by regurgitation of a partially masticated food bolus.
steal syndrome: (Cardio)
occlusion of subclavian artery, retrograde filling of the subclavian via the
vertebral artery causes the subclavian to “steal” blood from the
vertebrobasilar system.
Stealth machine: (Ortho/Devices) ?
steatohepatitis: (Condition) fatty liver
steatorrhea: (Symptom) fat
in stools.
steatosis: (Symptom) excessive local accumulation of fat in the body,
also called adiposis.
Steida process: (Ortho/Ankle) Also called os
trigonum, accessory bone located behind the talus, above the calcaneus, seen on
x-ray, difficult to distinguish between a fracture.
Steinberg thumb
sign: when the thumb extends beyond the ulnar edge of the clenched fist, one
sign of Marfan syndrome.
Steinbrocker arthritis
score: Method of monitoring and assessing progression of
rheumatoid arthritis, Class I-IV; it is used in a more modified form than the
original scoring.
Steindler
matricectomy: removal of nail plate (fingers or toes).
Stein-Leventhal syndrome: (Ob-GYN)
polycystic ovary disease.
Steinmann pin: (Ortho) metal rod used for
fixation.
steinstrasse
: (Urology)
The modern medical meaning refers to a group of fragments impacted in a segment
of the ureter. The literal meaning came from the German pioneers of ESWL, which
means “stone street”. The condition may clear with
supportive measures or may require endoscopic intervention.
stellate fracture: star-shaped fracture.
stellate ganglia/ganglion:
star-shaped collection of
sympathetic nerve cell bodies from which nerve fibers are distributed to the
face, neck, and to the blood vessels and organs of the thorax.
stellate ganglion block:
used as anesthesia during
cardiac procedures.
Stellwag sign: (Ophth/Endo)
apparent widening of the distance between upper and lower eyelids, a sign of
exophthalmic goiter.
Stemmer sign: picking up or lightly pinching a fold of skin at
dorsum of fingers or toes; if skin cannot be lifted, it is termed a positive Stemmer sign, seen in late stages of descending lymphedema
(AAMT 2001; AAFP).
Stemp compound: (ENT)
stenosis, eccentric: (versus concentric)
Stenotrophomonas
maltophilia: (Lab) bacteria.
Stensen duct: (ENT)
Stenver view: (X-ray)
step staples
step trochar
step down osteotomy:
metatarsal.
step-off fracture
Step 1, Step 2
diets: (Cardio) for high
cholesterol/heart disease prevention.
steppage gait
STEPS program: system for thalidomide education and prescribing
safety.
step-test protocol
stepping cadence
stereo Titmus test: eye
stereo Waters x-ray
stereotactic limbic leucotomy
stereotactic surgery: small burr hole made in skull.
stereotaxic neuroradiography: x-ray procedure that guides insertion of needle into
a desired location in the brain.
stereotypy: plural = sterotypies;
(Psych) to maintain one attitude for a long period or constant, repetitive
movements for no reason.
sterilely: this is a Webster’s accepted spelling, or can write
out as “in a sterile manner”.
sterile pyuria: (Condition/Urology) having WBCs without bacteria
present.
Steri-Neb: (Rx)
cromolyn sodium for use in nebulizers.
Stern-McCarthy
panendoscope: (Devices)
Stetton spur crusher:
(Devices)
Stevens-Johnson
syndrome: (Derm) erythema multiforme major,
may be caused by certain drugs, viral infections, and malignancies.
Stevens scissors: (Ophth).
Stevens tenotomy hook (Instruments)
Stevenson lacrimal sac
retractor (Instruments)
Stevia, Stevia Plus: OTC
herbal sweetener
Stewart and Harley
procedure: ankle.
STI: (Oncology)
signal transduction inhibitor; a new class of anticancer drugs (i.e., Gleevec).
stiff cells: (Lab/Endocrinology)
problems with microvascular blood flow (diabetes).
stiff ray: (Condition/Ortho)
toe joint immobility.
stiletto: sharp, point narrow blade.
Stille-Liston forceps: (Instruments)
Stille-Luer rongeur: (Instruments)
stippled epiphysis: sign of condrodystrophia
calcificans on x-ray.
St Kitts: (Geography) one of the leeward
islands,
stochastic: the idea of randomness.
stocking-glove distribution:
(Neuro)
describing degree of surface sensitivity; extremity affected most severely
distally with progressive improvement toward normal proximally
Stockman penis
clamp: (Instrument)
Stolte tonsil
dissector: (Instrument)
stomachache, stomach ache:
the 1-word version is found
in Webster’s and several others; the 2-word version is found in Stedman’s.
Stone forceps: (Instrument)
to remove stones
Stone procedure: (Ortho)
for hallux rigidus.
stone protein: (Lab) a mucoprotein that may be involved in keeping
calcium solubolized in pancreatic juice.
Stone-Holcombe intestinal
clamp: (Instrument)
Stoneman forceps: (Instrument)
Stookey rongeur: (Instrument)
STOP: Selective
Tubal Occlusion Procedure; nonsurgical permanent contraception (HPI 2000).
Storey gall duct forceps: (Instrument)
storiform (straw mat) pattern: (Lab) on microscopic examination.
Storz disposable
trephine: (Instrument)
Storz septum
speculum: (Instrument)
Storz-Beck tonsil
snare: (Instrument)
straddle fracture: occur in both superior and inferior pubic rami.
straight last shoes: describes the shape of the shoe, symmetrical relative
to the bottom of the shoe from the middle of the heel to the middle of the toe
(other types include curved last and semi-curved last).
straight leg raising: a test on physical exam for nerve root irritation.
strain: an injury to a tendon (see sprain).
strain gauge testing:
measurement
of forces such as strain, pressure.
strain pattern: (Cardio) on EKG, may be dictated as “LV strain
pattern”, “right heart strain pattern”, “LVH suggestive of strain pattern”,
etc.
strait-laced: (Phrase) NOTE: It is not spelled “straight”. Phrase
means being marked by excessive concern for propriety and good form, proper,
prudish, etc. (Source: Roget’s Thesaurus, 3rd
Ed).
straitjacket: NOTE: It is not spelled as “straight”; also note it
is one word.
stramonium effect: (Horticulture) Stramonium is also called jimsonweed,
angel trumpet, Datura stramonium; leaves are hallucinogen and hypnotic, seeds
cause mental confusion and delirium, deep sleep, hallucinations; temporary
blindness; excessive amounts are toxic. The plant is found as an ornamental in
many backyards; made news in 2002 as several teenagers were rushed to Madison
ER having ingested the seeds orally for recreation.
strap muscles: (Anatomy)
neck
Strassman
metroplasty: (GYN) for bicornuate uterus.
Stratasis procedure:
(Uro)
urethral sling procedure, for urinary incontinence (NOTE: See “Stratis II” below to avoid confusing the
2).
Stratis II: type of open MRI system; you may see it as all caps
“STRATIS II”, always uses Roman numeral “2” (See “Stratasis” above to avoid
confusing the two).
Strattera: (Rx)
generic = atomoxetine; for attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder (2002 FDA).
Strauss meatus clamp: (Instruments)
strawberry cervix: (GYN/Symptom) seen in trichomoniasis
strawberry tongue: (Symptom) papillae look like bright red dots, seen in
scarlet fever.
Strayer procedure: heel cord
Street medullary
pin: (Device) capitalize.
street team: name for a community service program in
Streeter dysplasia: (Condition) Damage to the amnion may produce fibrous
bands that can entrap the limbs of the fetus. These bands compress the area of
the limb over which they run reducing blood supply and causing the limb to
develop abnormally. Bands may also run across the face or any other body part,
causing defects.
Streptococcus mutans
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Streptococcus uberis
Streptococcus viridans
stress and rest myocardial perfusion scan: may
also be dictated as “stress/rest” or “rest/stress”
stress dose steroids:
steroids given to patients
already on steroids for acute trauma, illness, surgery.
stress fracture: a break in a bone caused by repetitive stress.
stress-related mucosal disease:
SRMD, decreased blood to the
GI tract.
“Stretching”: (Book) Author is Bob Anderson (not Robert).
Stretta procedure: (GI) outpatient procedure for gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD), heartburn (Stedman Updates 2001).
stridor: (Pulm) low, audible inspiratory rhonchi, breath
sound.
string of beads appearance:
finding of medial fibroplasia
of the carotid artery on angiogram.
Stromagen: currently in clinical
trials as a stem cell product for breast cancer (2004).
stromal edema: (Ophth)
Stromectol: (Rx) generic = ivermectin; oral drug for parasitic
infections.
Stroop Color-Word
Task: (Psych) The test involves presenting patient with a set of color naming
words (red, green, blue, yellow) written in various incongruent colors (i.e.,
the word “red” printed in blue ink) along with neutral symbols such as XXX
presented in the same colors. The task of the patient is to respond as quickly
as possible to the color the word is printed in, regardless of what the word
reads; method of studying automatic processing.
Strumpell-Leichtenstern encephalitis: (Neuro)
acute hemorrhagic encephalitis, prevalent in children, characterized by
necrosis, hemorrhage, and demyelination of white matter.
strut rhinoplasty: (Plastic Surgery) to provide additional support or
strength to the nasal tip, a strut may be placed, which consists of a
rectangular piece of cartilage.
Stryker frame: (Device)
A frame that holds the patient and permits turning in various planes without
individual motion of parts, allowing staff to turn a patient easily.
Stryker saw: (Equipment)
vibrating saw used for cutting bone or plaster casts.
Stryker monitor
system: solid state transducer intracompartmental pressure
monitor.
Stryker notch: x-ray
view of shoulder
STSG: (Abbrev) meaning split thickness skin graft.
ST-T wave: (Cardio)
StuartNatal Plus: (Rx) vitamin/calcium/iron supplement, by
prescription.
stubbed toe sign: (Condition) occult compression injury involving the
metatarsal.
Stubbs adenoid
curet: (Instruments)
Studer pouch: (Uro) orthotopic neobladder,
constructing a new bladder.
stump shrinker: a dressing used to keep swelling down of the
amputated limb.
stump sock
stunned myocardium: reduction in contractility
stuttering infarction: (Condition) ischemic pain that fluctuates in severity
over hours.
St Vitus dance: (Condition) an obsolete term for a form of chorea
following rheumatic fever.
styloid process: (Anatomy)
distal-most portion of radius/ulna.
stylomastoid foramen
subastragalar dislocation: (Condition) ankle.
subcapital fracture
subclavian catheter
subclavian steal syndrome:
(Cardiology) NOTE: It is not
spelled as steel. Refers to subclavian artery occlusive
disease, associated with flow reversal in the vertebral artery, considered
“stealing” the blood from one artery to give to another.
subcutaneous emphysema: subcutaneous air, tissue emphysema.
sublimis tendon: hand
Suboxone: (Rx) generic: buprenorphine/naloxone;
for treatment of opioid dependence.
subpubic angle: the apex of the pubic arch (NOTE: suprapubic means above the pubic arch).
subtalar arthrodesis
subtalar arthroereisis
subtenons
subtraction angiography study / films: also
called digitalis subtraction angiography study or SAS; method to visualize
arteries/veins on x-ray.
subtrochanteric fracture: of femur
subungual heloma: (Condition) corn beneath the nail plate.
suburethral sling procedure:
(Urology)
Subutex:
(Rx) generic
: buprenorphine; for treatment of
opioid dependence.
succedaneous teeth: (Dental) the permanent incisors, cuspids, and
premolar teeth).
succussion splash: the “sloshing” of air and fluid in the thorax.
Sucraid oral suspension: supplement
for sucrase-isomaltase deficiency.
sucrase-isomaltase
deficiency: genetic metabolic disorder in which patients get
diarrhea when table sugar and certain other carbohydrates are ingested.
Sudafed: OTC
product line, decongestants.
SuDBP: (Abbrev) meaning supine
diastolic blood pressure.
sudomotor: denotes
nerve which stimulate sweat glands to activity (See pseudomotor).
sudoriferous cyst: a cyst of the sweat glands
sugar tong splint: (Device/Ortho)
Sugiura procedure: (ENT) for
esophageal varices (NOTE: This is the verified correct spelling, not “sigiura”, “suguiria”, etc)
sulcus length orthosis: (Podiatry)
Sulfoam shampoo: (Derm) OTC
antiseborrheic, keratolytic shampoo.
Sulforcin lotion:
(Derm) for acne.
sulfur colloid scan:
of the abdomen, spleen and
liver.
Sullivan sign: (Podiatry)
because of chronic neuroma formation, the toes will spread creating a “peace
sign”, which is called Sullivan sign.
sulphonamides: a class
of antibiotics (i.e., Septra, Bactrim, etc).
summation gallop: (Cardio)
very rapid heart rate where S3 and S4 merge.
Summit Technology Excimed
200 laser: (Ophth) used with contact lens corneal mask (stencil)
to make cuts in the cornea, adjusting the tissue tension to reduce astigmatism.
sump drain: (Cardio/Devices)
Sun Chlorella A: (3
words) OTC Japanese herb, ginseng, called the “amazing green superfood” (2001).
sundowning: (Geriatrics/Psych) increased restless, confusion, and
verbal deterioration as it gets darker outside, near the end of the day and
evening.
sunrise view: (Radio) X-ray view of patella
Sunrise LTK
procedure: (Ophth) laser thermokeratoplasty for farsightedness
(2001).
sunset eyes: (Symptom/Peds) a downward
shift in gaze to the point of resembling a setting sun, can be a sign of
hydrocephalus; also called setting sun sign.
SunSpots: (Derm) A sticker that turns color on the body, warns wearer
of too much UVB sun exposure.
Supartz: (Rx) injection for knee pain.
superchiastmatic nucleus of hypothalamus: (Anatomy) the body’s internal biological clock,
responsible for generating circadian rhythms, sleep-wake cycles; also
abbreviated SCN.
Superfeet: name
brand of insoles for shoes.
super-PEEP: extraordinary
levels of positive end-expiratory pressure.
supernumerary nipple: an “extra” nipple, found anywhere on the trunk of the
body.
Super Pinky: (Devices/Ophth)
a brand name mechanical pressure device.
Superstat pad:
(Surgery) sponge-like wafer
that dissolves into a gel and slows blood flow.
super stress test: (Cardio) exercise test looking for certain parameters
that would indicate a patient is at severe risk for sudden cardiac event.
“sup
hose”: phrase short for support hose, type it out.
supinator muscle: (Anatomy) forearm
supine AHI:
(Pulm) on sleep studies, supine apnea-hypopnea
index; usually followed by a score giving number of occurrences per hour.
Suppan procedure: (Pod/Surgery)
for nail deformity.
support catheter: (Cardio/Surgery)
used in cardiovascular procedures to support a guidewire.
supracondylar fracture
Supramid Extra
suture: for skin closure.
supraomohyoid: neck.
supraoptico-hypophyseal axis: of hypothalamus and neurohypophysis.
suprapubic: means above the pubic arch (see subpubic).
suprasellar cisterna: area of brain.
supraspinatus muscle: (Anatomy) shoulder and
upper arm area.
supratentorial: (Neuro) meaning above the
tentorium cerebelli, used to describe functional symptoms.
Suprax: (Rx)
generic = cefixime, antibiotic. DISCONTINUED JULY 2002, stock will be
distributed until supply exhausted or until March 2003, whichever comes first
(FDA 2002).
Supreme II: (Device) brand of blood glucose meter.
suppressor cells: (Lab) also called CD8 count
or killer cells.
sural nerve: (Anatomy) sensory nerve of calf.
SurePress padding:
used for venous ulcers
SureStep: blood
glucose monitoring system.
surface fluorescent spectroscopy
surface-incorporated immunoglobulin:
Sig
Surfaxin: (Rx)
generic = lucinacant; drug for pulmonary conditions;
orphan drug status currently (2003).
surfeit: meaning excessive amount.
Surgaloy wire: (Instruments)
Surgidev iris clip: (Instruments)
Surgifoam: (Supplies/Surgery) surgical sponge used for hemostasis.
SurgiLav machine: (Surgery/Ortho/Device) used for debriding and
cleaning necrotic tissue from chronic wounds.
Surgilon suture
Surg-I-Loop: (Surgery/Supplies) silicone
loops of various sizes used at surgery for retraction, occlusion, identifying
veins, arteries, etc.
Surgin hemorrhage occluder pin
Surgi-Pad combine dressings
Surgiport
SurgiScope: (Surgery/Device) intraoperative guidance system,
especially in brain surgery (HPI 2000).
SurgiSis:
(Surgery/Supplies) mesh used
in rectal prolapse and bladder suspension surgeries,
reinforces soft tissues.
SurgiTouch Flashscan
laser: (Equip/ENT/Surgery) CO2 laser used for laser
myringotomy instead of ventilation tubes.
Surgi-Tron: (Devices) portable radiosurgical unit
Survanta: (Rx) beractant, for respiratory distress syndrome.
Suspend sling:
(Surgery) implant used for urinary
stress incontinence in women.
Sustiva: (Rx)
generic = efavirenz; antiviral drug (FDA 2002).
Sutent:
(Rx) generic = sunitinib; for kidney cancer.
Sutherland
procedure: hip/thigh
Sutherland scissors: (Ophth)
Sutralon suture: (Surgery)
synthetic suture for soft tissue approximation.
SutraSilk suture: (Surgery)
silk suture for soft tissue approximation.
Sutureloop:
used for bladder neck
suspension procedures.
Suture Lok: used
for small vessel ligation.
suture/Vesiband
organizer
SVBG: abbreviation for saphenous vein bypass grafting.
SVR: abbreviation
for systemic vascular resistance.
SVT: abbrevation for supraventricular tachycardia.
swaged-on needle: eye
swan neck deformity:
finger
swan neck revision
Swan-Ganz catheter /
catheterization: (Cardio) passed through neck to heart and pulmonary
artery to monitor hemodynamic status.
Swanson prosthesis
swayback: also called saddleback.
Swede-O ankle brace: (Ortho) also include Swede-O Inner Lok 8, Tarsal Lok, Atom
Swedish knee cage: orthosis
Swift nasal pillows: (Pulm) used with CPAP; aka,
ResMed Mirage Swift nasal pillows, Mirage Swift
nasal pillow system.
Swiftlase laser: type of laser/mode.
swimmer’s view: x-ray view of cervical spine.
swim-up test: (GYN)
swine xenograft
swing bed concept: allows acute care beds in hospitals to be used for other purposes, an
accounting term.
“swing” test: (Cardio)
test measuring variability in heart rate (or swings) over 24-hour period; aka HRV, heart rate variability test.
swinging flashlight test:
(Peds/Oph)
swinging heart: anatomic position of the heart changes with every
other heartbeat on echocardiogram.
Swiss blade
breaker/holder: (Instruments)
Swyer-James-Macleod
syndrome: (Pulm) airway obstruction.
Sydenham chorea: (Condition/Neuro)
neurologic disorder characterized by irregular, involuntary movements of
muscles; also called St Vitus dance and rheumatic
chorea.
Sygen: (Rx) for treatment of traumatic spinal cord injuries;
not yet FDA approved except under the FDA “compassionate use” criteria.
Sylvius, angle of
Symax-SL: (Rx) sublingual tablets; GI/GU antispasmodic, antiParkinson, drying agent for allergic rhinitis and
hyperhidrosis (2002).
Symbicort 100/6 or 200/6:
(Rx) Turbohaler
for asthma (2002).
Symbion artificial
heart: formerly Jarvik-7.
Symbyax:
(Rx) generic =
olanzapine/fluoxetine; for depression and bipolar disorder.
Symlin: (Rx) pramlintide; synthetic hormone, helps regulate
flow of sugar in the bloodstream.
Symmetra: (Radio) brachyseed therapy for prostate carinoma; radiation seed
implant (1999).
Symmetrel: (Rx) generic = amantadine; antiviral, also used for
Parkinson disease and for drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions.
sympathetic nervous system:
the part of the autonomic
nervous system that responds to dangerous or threatening situations by
preparing the body physiologically for the “fight or flight” response.
synaptic terminals: (Neuro)
synchronous burst pacemaker
Synchrony: (Cardio/Device) sensor-controlled dual chamber cardiac pacemaker.
synchrotron-based transvenous angiography: (Radio) for
screening patients at risk of myocardial infarction but not yet exhibiting any
symptoms; utilizes dichromography and synchrotron
light.
syncytial knots: (OB/GYN)
syndesmotic screw: (Ortho/Surgery)
synechialysis: (Ophth) lysis of adhesions; synechia is a
disease in which the iris adheres to the cornea or capsule of crystalline lens.
Syndrome X: metabolic
syndrome, heart disease risk factors, insulin resistance, abnormal blood fats,
overweight, high blood pressure
Synercid: (Rx)
quinupristin and dalfopristin; antibiotic (FDA 1999)
Synergist Erection
System: (Uro) for erectile
dysfunction.
Synergy Versitrel
neurostimulator: (Device/Neuro) implantable device for chronic pain.
SynMesh:
(Surgery) titanium mesh used
to reinforce weak bony material.
synovial chondromatosis
synovial chondrometaplasia
synovial cyst: accumulation of fluid in bursa or sac.
synovial osteochondromatosis:
formation by the synovium of
cartilage bodies; also called synovial chondromatosis or synovial
chondrometaplasia.
Syntel embolectomy catheter: (Equip)
latex-free balloon embolectomy catheter.
-synthesis: suffix
indicating putting together, composition, surgical fastening of ends of fractured
bones by sutures, rings, plates, or other mechanical means.
Synvisc: (Rx)
hylan G-F 20 injection for osteoarthritis.
syrinx: (Neuro) cyst within the spinal
cord.
syringomyelia: (Neuro) condition of cyst within
spinal cord, grows and destroys center of spinal cord.
systemic lupus erythematosus:
NOTE: spelling ends in “sus”
not “sis”; also abbreviated as SLE. For more info, go to: www.niams.nih.gov/hi/topics/lupus/slehandout/
systolic blood pressure:
(Cardio)
outgoing pulse of the heart, the “top”
number in BP readings.
Syttende Mai: Norwegian
festival held on a weekend near the 17th of May, celebrated in Stoughton,
WI, locally, includes a 20-mile competitive run and 17-mile fun walk.
Szymanowski-Kuhnt
operation: ophthalmic plastic surgery