Neurosurgical Terms - Chapter 6

Question 1

Facet

Answer 1

A small, smooth-surfaced end of a bony projection (articular process) that functions as part of a joint.

Question 2

Facet joint

Answer 2

Each of four joints formed above, below, and on either side of a vertebra. The lower bony projection of one vertebra meets the upper projections of the vertebra below it, forming facet joints.

Question 3

Facetectomy

Answer 3

Surgical removal of one of the facets; excision of a facet joint.

Question 4

Falx cerebri

Answer 4

An extension of dura between the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

Question 5

Fontanelle

Answer 5

Normal openings in the skull of infants. The largest of these is the anterior fontanelle, the “soft spot” in the middle of the head.

Question 6

Foramen

Answer 6

A hole or opening that acts as a passageway for nerves or blood vessels.

Question 7

Foraminotomy

Answer 7

Surgical enlargement of the foramen/foramina.

Question 8

Fractionated therapy

Answer 8

Stereotactic radiation that is given in multiple lower-dose treatments rather than in a single session.

Question 9

Fusiform aneurysm

Answer 9

A sausage-like enlargement of the blood vessel.