We get it. We like our acronyms! Orthopaedic Surgeons, and doctors in general, often go around saying groups of letters as if everyone is going to get it.
That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive list to serve as a clear and reliable reference for our patients. Whether you’re reviewing test results, discussing a diagnosis with your physician, or reading about your recovery plan, this list can help you make sense of the medical language being used. Our goal is to empower patients with knowledge so that every conversation about your health is less intimidating and more productive.
Acronym
Full Title
Description
MD
Doctor of Medicine
Completed allopathic medical training. Focuses on traditional biomedical model and is licensed for full scope medical and surgical practice.
DO
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Completes the same training as MDs with added emphasis on holistic care and musculoskeletal system. Licensed for full medical and surgical practice in the U.S.
PA-C
Physician Assistant, Certified
Graduate-level provider trained in diagnosis, treatment, and minor surgery. Works under physician supervision but can prescribe and manage care.
NP
Nurse Practitioner
Advanced practice registered nurse with graduate-level training. Provides diagnosis, treatment, and prescribing, often with a holistic emphasis.
DNP
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Highest clinical nursing degree with focus on evidence-based practice and leadership. Functions as an NP but with expanded academic and clinical training.
CRNA
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
Advanced practice nurse specializing in anesthesia. Provides anesthesia independently or alongside anesthesiologists in surgery and trauma settings.
Bone & Joint Conditions
BMD – Bone Mineral Density: Measurement of bone strength using imaging (DEXA scan). Helps diagnose osteoporosis and fracture risk. Essential for long-term bone health monitoring.
CTS – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Causes numbness, tingling, and hand weakness. Often treated with splints, injections, or surgery.
OA – Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease due to cartilage breakdown. Causes pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Common in hips, knees, and hands.
RSI – Repetitive Strain Injury: Overuse injury to muscles, tendons, or nerves. Common in wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Preventable with ergonomic adjustments.
Fractures & Fixation
FNF – Femoral Neck Fracture: Break in the neck of the femur, common in elderly after falls. High risk of complications due to disrupted blood supply. Treated with screws, arthroplasty, or hemiarthroplasty.
Fx / Frx – Fracture: Break in a bone. Classified by pattern, location, and stability. May require casting, fixation, or surgery.
DHS – Dynamic Hip Screw: Implant system for stabilizing femoral neck or intertrochanteric fractures. Allows controlled compression during healing. Inserted surgically into the femur.
SHS – Sliding Hip Screw: Similar to DHS, used for hip fracture stabilization. Provides controlled movement as the fracture heals. Widely used in orthopaedic trauma.
IMN – Intramedullary Nail: Rod placed inside bone marrow canal for fracture stabilization. Common in long bone fractures. Provides strong internal fixation.
CMN – Cephalomedullary Nail: Type of intramedullary nail extending into the femoral head. Stabilizes proximal femur fractures. Often chosen for unstable hip fractures.
ORIF – Open Reduction Internal Fixation: Surgical repair of fractures using plates, screws, or rods. “Open reduction” means exposing the bone surgically. “Internal fixation” stabilizes it from inside.
Ex-fix – External Fixator: Frame with pins/wires inserted into bone through skin. Stabilizes fractures or corrects deformities externally. Used in severe trauma or infection cases.
Arthroplasty & Joint Replacement
THA – Total Hip Arthroplasty: Complete hip replacement with artificial components. Relieves pain from arthritis or fractures. Improves mobility and quality of life.
TKA – Total Knee Arthroplasty: Replacement of the knee joint with artificial implants. Used for end-stage arthritis or deformity. Restores function and reduces pain.
TSA – Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: Replacement of the shoulder joint with prosthesis. Improves motion and relieves pain. Used for arthritis or severe fractures.
RSA – Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: Shoulder replacement where ball and socket are reversed. Provides stability when rotator cuff is deficient. Useful in complex shoulder conditions.
DFR – Distal Femoral Replacement: Prosthetic replacement of lower femur. Used in severe fractures or tumors. Restores knee joint stability and function.
Neuro & Physical Exam Terms
DTR – Deep Tendon Reflexes: Involuntary muscle contractions when tendon is tapped. Used to assess nerve and spinal cord function. Commonly tested in knees and ankles.
SILT – Sensation Intact to Light Touch: Exam finding documenting preserved skin sensation. Indicates intact nerve function. Common in trauma assessments.
AIN – Anterior Interosseous Nerve: Branch of the median nerve controlling thumb/index finger flexion. Injury causes weakness in pinch grip. Tested with “OK sign.”
PIN – Posterior Interosseous Nerve: Branch of the radial nerve controlling finger extension. Injury causes finger drop. Often injured in forearm trauma.
Motion & Weight Bearing
FROM – Full Range of Motion: Joint can move normally in all planes. Indicates absence of stiffness or contracture. Often documented in rehab notes.
PROM – Passive Range of Motion: Movement performed by examiner without patient effort. Tests joint flexibility and stiffness. Important in rehab and post-op recovery.
AROM – Active Range of Motion: Movement performed by patient voluntarily. Assesses muscle strength and function. Limited in cases of weakness or pain.
NWB – Non-Weight Bearing: Patient must not put weight on injured limb. Requires crutches, walker, or wheelchair. Standard after major fractures or surgery.
PWB – Partial Weight Bearing: Patient may put limited weight on limb. Usually specified as percentage (e.g., 25%). Step-down progression in rehab.
TTWB – Toe Touch Weight Bearing: Only toes lightly touch the ground for balance. No real weight through limb. Transition stage before partial weight bearing.
FFWB – Foot Flat Weight Bearing: Patient may rest entire foot but not load limb. Intermediate between TTWB and PWB. Used for gradual progression.
WBAT – Weight Bearing as Tolerated: Patient bears as much weight as comfortable. Limited only by pain. Common after stable fracture fixation.
Trauma & Mechanism
APC – Anterior Posterior Compression: Pelvic fracture pattern from front-to-back force. Causes pelvic instability and bleeding risk. Often from high-energy trauma.
LC – Lateral Compression: Pelvic fracture pattern from side-to-side force. Stability varies with severity. Common in vehicle or crush injuries.
GLF – Ground-Level Fall: Fall from standing height. Common cause of hip and wrist fractures in elderly. Often signals osteoporosis or frailty.
GSW – Gunshot Wound: Penetrating trauma from firearm. May involve bone, nerves, and vessels. Requires multidisciplinary care.
Materials
Provider & Professional Acronyms
Physicians
MD – Doctor of Medicine: Completed allopathic medical training. Focuses on traditional biomedical model. Trained in surgery, prescribing, and full scope practice.
DO – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine: Completes same training as MD with additional focus on holistic care and musculoskeletal system. Uses osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). Licensed for full practice in the U.S.
Additional Physician Types
PA-C – Physician Assistant, Certified: Graduate-level medical provider trained in diagnosis, treatment, and minor surgery. Works under physician supervision. Can prescribe medication.
NP – Nurse Practitioner: Advanced practice registered nurse with graduate-level training. Provides diagnosis, treatment, and prescribing. Often emphasizes preventive and holistic care.
DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice: Highest clinical degree for nursing. Focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills. Functions as an NP with expanded academic training.
Nursing & Allied Health
RN – Registered Nurse: Provides patient care, medication administration, and coordination. Licensed after nursing degree and national exam. Backbone of hospital and surgical teams.
LPN – Licensed Practical Nurse: Provides basic patient care under RN supervision. Training shorter than RN. Common in rehab and outpatient settings.
CNA – Certified Nursing Assistant: Assists patients with daily living tasks. Works under nurses’ supervision. Provides vital bedside support.
CRNA – Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist: Advanced practice nurse specializing in anesthesia. Provides anesthesia independently or with anesthesiologists. Critical in surgery and trauma care.
Therapy & Rehabilitation
PT – Physical Therapist: Doctorate-level provider specializing in mobility, strength, and rehab. Designs exercise programs for recovery. Critical after surgery or injury.
DPT – Doctor of Physical Therapy: Doctoral degree in physical therapy (entry-level in U.S.). Focuses on evidence-based rehab care. Equivalent to PT but emphasizes doctoral training.
OT – Occupational Therapist: Helps patients regain independence in daily activities. Focuses on upper extremity function and adaptive strategies. Important post-surgery or after injury.
COTA – Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant: Works under OT supervision. Delivers therapy exercises and training. Provides hands-on patient support.
ATC – Athletic Trainer, Certified: Specializes in sports medicine, injury prevention, and rehab. Works with athletes and orthopaedic teams. Provides on-field and clinical support.
Surgical & Training Roles
FA – First Assistant: Assists primary surgeon with exposure, suturing, and technical tasks. Can be physician, PA, or NP. Enhances operative efficiency.
SA – Surgical Assistant: Supports surgeon intraoperatively with retraction, suction, and prep. May be trained staff or non-physician. Distinct from scrub nurse.
PGY-# – Post-Graduate Year: Indicates level of residency training. Example: PGY-3 = third-year resident. Determines experience and role in surgery.
MS4 – Fourth-Year Medical Student: Final year before graduation from medical school. May assist in surgery under supervision. Limited responsibilities compared to residents.
Certifications
FAAOS – Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Prestigious membership after board certification in orthopaedics. Indicates commitment to education and peer standards. Recognized globally in orthopaedics.
FACS – Fellow of the American College of Surgeons: Designation for surgeons meeting rigorous professional standards. Shows commitment to ethical and skilled surgical practice. Used across multiple specialties.
Understanding Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty: What You Need to Know
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with a hip fracture or are considering treatment options, it’s important to understand the various surgical procedures available. One such option is bipolar hemiarthroplasty, a specialized type of hip surgery designed to address specific issues with the hip joint.
Hip Fractures
What is a Hip Fracture?
A hip fracture typically occurs in the femoral neck, the narrow section of the thigh bone that is just below the ball of the hip joint. This area is crucial as it connects the ball of your hip joint to the main shaft of the femur. When a fracture happens here, it can disrupt the blood supply flowing to the hip joint, leading to significant pain and potential long-term damage. Conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy might not always be sufficient, making surgery a necessary option.
Causes of Hip Fractures:
Falls: Common in older adults, especially on hard surfaces.
Osteoporosis: Weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
Trauma: Accidents or injuries, such as car crashes.
Repetitive Stress: Certain high-impact sports or activities.
Symptoms of Hip Fractures:
Severe Hip Pain: Especially in the groin or outer thigh.
Inability to Move: Difficulty moving the leg or bearing weight.
Swelling and Bruising: Around the hip or thigh.
Shortened Leg: The affected leg may appear shorter and turned outward.
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Bipolar hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat hip fractures, particularly when the head of the femur is damaged. The term "hemiarthroplasty" refers to replacing half of the hip joint with a prosthetic. In the case of bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the procedure involves replacing the damaged femoral head with a prosthetic component with a two-part design: an inner head and an outer cup. This design allows the head to swivel within the outer cup, which helps reduce wear and tear on the new joint.
This type of surgery benefits patients with arthritis in the remaining hip joint or who may have had previous fractures. The bipolar design provides greater stability and lowers the risk of complications, such as the prosthetic protruding into the acetabulum (the socket part of the hip joint).
What to Expect During Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty
During bipolar hemiarthroplasty, the damaged femoral head and neck are removed. A prosthetic ball is then implanted in its place, secured with either cement or acrylic bone cement. The goal of the surgery is to restore hip function and reduce pain. After the procedure, physical therapy is crucial to help you regain movement and strength in the joint.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
How long does it take to recover from a Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty?
Recovering from hip replacement surgery can be a long and challenging process, and there's no easy way through it. After any major surgery, the idea for most patients is complete relaxation and ongoing therapy until they are completely healed.
For added comfort, keep a pillow between your knees any time you are lying down. If you are lying on your back, the pillow should rest under the affected leg and on top of the other leg. This will help you turn onto your side without twisting at the hips.
Recovery from bipolar hemiarthroplasty involves several stages:
Immediate Post-Surgery
You will start physical therapy as soon as you are able, often the day after surgery. This therapy focuses on helping you move without dislocating your new hip joint and includes exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip.
Precautions
To avoid complications and ensure proper healing, you will need to follow these guidelines:
Avoid twisting movements at the hips.
Keep your shoulders, hips, knees, and feet aligned and facing forward.
Do not cross your affected leg over the midline of your body.
Use a pillow between your knees while lying down to prevent crossing your legs.
After a bipolar hemiarthroplasty, you will want to be very careful as you get in or out of bed or a car. Imagine a line that goes down the middle of your body, and make sure your leg does not cross it until you are fully healed.
Ongoing Care
You will want to make sure you continue with physical therapy and adhere to any additional precautions advised by your surgeon. Recovery can be gradual, but many patients achieve effective and lasting results from this surgery.
Bipolar hemiarthroplasty can be an effective solution for managing severe hip fractures, offering pain relief and improved joint function. If you’re considering this procedure or need more information, reach out to schedule with one of our specialists to discuss whether it’s the right option for your situation. Proper education about the surgery and recovery process can help you prepare for a smoother transition back to your daily activities.
This blog post is meant to be informative and should not act as a self-diagnosis tool. If you’d like to see one of our doctors, please contact us here.
Understanding the Foot and the Kidner Procedure
Before we get into the Kidner Procedure, it's important to give a little background on the foot anatomy itself.
The Basic Anatomy of the Foot
To appreciate the importance of the accessory navicular, let's delve into the basics of foot anatomy.
Our feet are made up of three main types of bones: tarsals at the back, metatarsals in the middle, and phalanges, which are the toe bones. Among the tarsals, there are usually seven bones, including the navicular. This bone sits between the ankle bone and the smaller tarsal bones, forming a crucial part of our foot structure.
Understanding this basic foot anatomy sets the stage for grasping the role of the accessory navicular in our overall foot health.
What's an Accessory Navicular?
The human foot is a complex structure composed of various bones, and anomalies can sometimes occur, leading to discomfort and pain.
One such condition involves the presence of an accessory navicular. The accessory navicular is an additional bone that can be found along the inner center arch of the foot. Approximately 2.5 percent of individuals are born with this extra bone, though it often goes unnoticed during early childhood. While not all accessory navicular bones cause discomfort, as individuals grow and engage in physical activities, the accessory navicular may become more prominent, potentially causing discomfort or other foot-related issues, particularly during activities such as walking or engaging in sports.
In some cases, medical attention may be required to address any symptoms or complications associated with this anatomical variation. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of the accessory navicular and explore the Kidner Procedure, a surgical solution designed to alleviate the associated discomfort.
Why you can trust us:
We believe in the power of specialization. What that means is that we have multiple orthopaedic ankle and foot specialists who treat foot and ankle orthopaedic injuries daily.
We have Ankle and Foot Physical Therapy - our orthopaedic ankle and foot team sees it every week, so you can trust the care you'll receive at POA.
What Does it Feel Like to Have an Issue With an Accessory Navicular
Having this extra foot bone commonly goes noticed. So how can you tell if your foot pain may be related to an accessory navicular? Below is a list of the symptoms you could be experiencing and a list of at-home treatments you can use to try to reduce your discomfort while you wait to see a foot specialist.
Symptoms That Could Mean You Have an Accessory Navicular
Persistent pain or discomfort along the inner arch of the foot
Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
Difficulty wearing certain types of shoes due to irritation
Pain exacerbated by physical activities or prolonged periods of standing
Visible prominence or bump on the inner side of the foot
Limited range of motion in the affected foot
Redness or warmth around the accessory navicular site
Gradual onset of symptoms, which may become more pronounced over time
Discomfort that may interfere with daily activities and physical pursuits
Potential development of flat feet or changes in foot arch structure
How to Reduce Irritation From an Accessory Navicular
Rest: Give your foot a break and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for short periods to help reduce inflammation.
Elevation: Elevate your foot when resting to minimize swelling.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medications: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help manage pain.
Supportive Footwear/Orthotics: To reduce pressure on the accessory navicular, wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning. Consider over-the-counter or custom orthotic inserts to provide additional support and alleviate discomfort.
Modify Activities: Steer clear of high-impact activities that strain the feet excessively, such as running or jumping. Adjust your daily activities to minimize standing or walking for extended periods until you can consult with a specialist.
Why Does an Extra Foot Bone Cause Pain?
When you have an accessory navicular, it can sometimes cause trouble for a tendon in your foot called the posterior tibial tendon. This tendon helps support your arch and foot movement. But with the extra bone hanging around, it might rub against the tendon, causing irritation and, over time, persistent pain. This kind of discomfort can really mess with your day-to-day activities and make it harder to enjoy physical stuff like walking or playing sports. So, it's not just a small thing – it can genuinely affect how you go about your daily routine and stay active.
What is the Kidner Procedure - A Solution for Pain Relief
If you're dealing with pain because of that extra bone in your foot (the accessory navicular), there's a solution called the Kidner Procedure that can really help. This is a surgical fix that focuses on getting rid of the extra bone, which, in turn, can ease the pain you've been feeling. By taking out that pesky extra bit, the procedure aims to bring relief and let you get back to using your foot the way you're used to. It's like a key to kick that discomfort out and help you regain your normal foot function.
The Surgical Process
What is The Kidner Procedure?
The Kidner Procedure is a surgical procedure that begins by separating the accessory navicular from the posterior tibial tendon. After successfully isolating the extra bone, the surgeon proceeds to remove it from the foot altogether. Once the accessory navicular has been excised, the posterior tibial tendon is reattached to the appropriate navicular bone, restoring the structural integrity of the foot.
How is The Kidner Procedure Done?
To perform this procedure, the surgeon typically makes a small incision on the side of the foot, ensuring precision and minimal disruption. This incision serves as the gateway for the surgical maneuvers. After the entire procedure is completed, the incision is carefully closed with stitches, allowing for proper healing. It's a meticulous process aimed at addressing the root cause of the discomfort and ensuring that the foot can heal and function optimally after the surgery.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
What to Expect After The Kidner Procedure
After the Kidner Procedure, the road to recovery usually takes about six weeks. During this time, it's common for patients to rely on crutches to take the weight off their healing foot.
This initial phase is super important because it gives your foot the time it needs to heal up properly. As the recovery moves along, you should start feeling a lot better, with a noticeable drop in the pain that the accessory navicular was causing.
It's like hitting the reset button on your foot troubles, and by the end of those six weeks, you'll likely be well on your way to walking and moving around more comfortably.
The Kidner Procedure stands as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with persistent foot pain attributed to the accessory navicular. By understanding the intricacies of this condition and the surgical solution offered by the Kidner Procedure, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare, seeking lasting relief and an improved quality of life. If you think you are potentially suffering discomfort from an extra foot bone and want to consult with our specialists, you can send us a message online, call us: (609) 924-8131, or text us: (609) 293-2816; We are here to help you get back on your feet.
How Do You Fix a Torn Muscle?
Our Orthopaedic Specialists have witnessed countless cases of torn muscles and have helped patients on their journey to recovery. Dealing with a torn muscle can be a daunting experience, but with the right knowledge and guidance, you can effectively heal and regain strength. By understanding the treatment options and implementing proper self-care, you can optimize your healing process and get back to an active lifestyle.
Seeking Professional Diagnosis For Torn Muscles:
When you suspect a torn muscle, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, ideally an orthopaedic surgeon or a sports medicine specialist. Through a comprehensive physical examination and diagnostic tests such as MRI or ultrasound, they can accurately assess the extent of the injury and identify the specific muscle involved. This step is essential for determining the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Non-Surgical Torn Muscle Treatment Options:
Depending on the severity of the tear, non-surgical treatments may be recommended. These can include:
Rest and activity modification: The first line of treatment for a torn muscle involves giving it sufficient rest to promote healing. Your orthopaedic surgeon may advise you to avoid activities that aggravate the injury, while gentle range-of-motion exercises may be encouraged to prevent joint stiffness.
Ice and compression: Applying ice packs and compression to the injured area can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Remember to use a barrier, such as a cloth, between the ice pack and your skin to avoid ice burns.
Physical therapy: A skilled physical therapist can guide you through exercises and stretching routines to gradually rehabilitate the torn muscle. They will focus on improving flexibility, strength, and stability to ensure a safe return to normal activities.
Surgical Torn Muscle Treatment Options:
In cases where non-surgical methods prove ineffective or for severe muscle tears, surgical intervention may be necessary. The surgical options vary depending on the location and extent of the tear. Common procedures include:
Muscle repair: This involves surgically reattaching the torn muscle ends to restore its integrity. The surgeon will use sutures or anchors to secure the muscle back into its original position.
Tendon transfer: In some cases, when the muscle is severely damaged or irreparable, a tendon transfer may be performed. This procedure involves taking a healthy tendon from another part of the body and using it to replace the torn muscle, restoring functionality.
Torn Muscle Rehabilitation and Recovery:
Following surgery or during non-surgical treatment, a structured rehabilitation program is vital for optimal recovery. Your orthopaedic surgeon and physical therapist will work together to create a customized plan tailored to your specific needs. The rehabilitation process typically includes:
Gradual strengthening exercises: Under the guidance of your physical therapist, you will engage in progressive resistance exercises to rebuild muscle strength and endurance. This will help restore function and prevent future injuries.
Flexibility and range-of-motion exercises: Stretching exercises are crucial to restore flexibility and maintain joint mobility. Your therapist will guide you through specific stretching routines to target the affected muscle groups.
Functional training: As you progress, your rehabilitation program will incorporate activities that mimic your daily or sports-specific movements. This will ensure a smooth transition back to your regular activities or sport.
Fixing a torn muscle requires a comprehensive approach, involving accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and dedicated rehabilitation. By seeking professional help, adhering to the recommended treatment plan, and committing to your rehabilitation program, you can maximize your chances of a successful recovery. Remember, patience is key during the healing process, and it's important to listen to your body's cues. With time, dedication, and proper guidance, you can heal your torn muscle and regain your active lifestyle.
At Princeton Orthopaedic Associates, our highly skilled team of Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Specialists are ready to address any musculoskeletal injury or condition. We pride ourselves on providing expert medical care in a professional, understanding, and empathetic environment, with numerous locations throughout New Jersey.
You're not alone in this journey - if you're experiencing any discomfort in your muscles, we invite you to contact us today. We're committed to helping you regain the quality of life you deserve.
