Neurosurgical Terms - Chapter 5

Question 1

Edema

Answer 1

An excessive accumulation of fluid in cells, tissues, or body cavities.

Question 2

Electroencephalography (EEG)

Answer 2

The study of the electrical currents set up by brain actions; the record made is called an electroencephalogram.

Question 3

Electromyography (EMG)

Answer 3

A method of recording the electrical currents generated in a muscle during its contraction.

Question 4

Encephalocele

Answer 4

The herniation of brain meninges through a skull defect.

Question 5

Endarterectomy

Answer 5

The removal of fatty or cholesterol plaques and calcified deposits from the internal wall of an artery. More about carotid occlusion.

Question 6

Endoscope

Answer 6

A thin, telescope-like instrument. A video camera attached to the endoscope records images a surgeon can view on a monitor. Specially designed surgical tools enable a surgeon to operate through small incision(s).

Question 7

Endovascular

Answer 7

Inside a blood vessel, especially a minimally invasive catheter-based approach for the treatment of central nervous system disorders (for example, a cerebral aneurysm).

Question 8

Ependyma

Answer 8

The membrane that lines the cerebral ventricles of the brain and central canal of the spinal cord.

Question 9

Ependymoma

Answer 9

A growth in the brain or spinal cord arising from ependymal tissue.

Question 10

Epidural (extradural)

Answer 10

Immediately outside the dura mater.

Question 11

Epidural hematoma

Answer 11

A blood clot between the dura mater and the inside of the skull.

Question 12

Epilepsy

Answer 12

A disorder characterized by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, causing abnormal sensation, movement or level of consciousness.