A CT myelogram is an imaging test that combines a myelogram (contrast dye placed around the spinal cord and nerves) with a CT scan. It is used to show the spinal canal, nerve roots, and areas where nerves may be compressed. It is most commonly used in spine care when MRI is not possible or does not answer the clinical question. It can evaluate the neck (cervical), mid-back (thoracic), or low back (lumbar) spine.
CT spine is a computed tomography (CT) scan focused on the bones and structures of the spine. It uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images. It is commonly used in emergency care, spine clinics, and hospitals to evaluate injury and structural problems. It is often ordered when clinicians need clearer bone detail than standard X-rays can provide.
A Coagulation Panel is a group of blood tests that assess how well blood clots. It helps clinicians understand bleeding risk and clotting tendency in common medical situations. It is frequently used in emergency care, perioperative planning, and cardiovascular medicine. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, medications, and other labs.
A Long-cassette radiograph is an X-ray image that captures a long section of the body in one view, often from the neck through the pelvis. It is most commonly used to evaluate overall spinal alignment and balance, especially when standing. Clinicians often order it for scoliosis, kyphosis, sagittal balance concerns, and pre-surgical planning. Modern systems may use digital detectors and image “stitching,” but the goal is the same: a full-length alignment view.
aPTT stands for *activated partial thromboplastin time*. It is a blood test that measures how long it takes blood to form a clot under specific lab conditions. It is commonly used in hospitals and clinics to evaluate bleeding or clotting problems. It is also used to monitor certain blood-thinning medicines, especially unfractionated heparin.
A **Scoliosis series** is a set of spine X-rays taken in standardized positions. It is commonly used to **evaluate and measure spinal curvature** and overall alignment. Spine specialists use it in clinics and hospitals to guide monitoring, bracing, and surgical planning. It is most often performed for children, teens, and adults with suspected or known scoliosis.
INR stands for *International Normalized Ratio*. It is a standardized number calculated from a blood clotting test called the prothrombin time (PT). INR is most commonly used to monitor the effect of warfarin (a vitamin K–antagonist blood thinner). It also helps clinicians understand clotting changes in certain illnesses, including liver disease and major bleeding.
EOS imaging is a type of low-dose X-ray system that captures full-body or full-spine images while a person is standing. It is commonly used in spine and orthopedic clinics to evaluate alignment in a weight-bearing position. It can produce both 2D images and, in some cases, 3D reconstructions of bones and joints. It is often discussed in the context of scoliosis, spinal balance, and lower-limb alignment.
eGFR stands for *estimated glomerular filtration rate*. It is a lab-reported estimate of how well the kidneys filter blood. It is usually calculated from a blood test (often creatinine) plus basic patient factors. It is widely used in primary care, nephrology, cardiology, and hospital medicine.
Flexion-extension radiographs are X-ray images taken while a person bends forward (flexion) and backward (extension). They are used to see how the spine moves under controlled, real-life positions. They are commonly ordered for the neck (cervical spine) and lower back (lumbar spine). They help clinicians evaluate possible abnormal motion, also called spinal instability.