HbA1c is a blood test that reflects average blood glucose (sugar) over the past few months. It measures how much glucose has attached to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes. Cardiovascular clinicians also use HbA1c to understand metabolic risk that can affect the heart and blood vessels.
MRI spine is a magnetic resonance imaging scan focused on the neck, mid-back, and/or low back. It creates detailed pictures of spinal nerves, discs, the spinal cord, and surrounding soft tissues. It is commonly used in hospitals and outpatient imaging centers to evaluate back or neck symptoms. It is also used to plan treatment and to check known spine conditions over time.
Hemoglobin A1c is a blood test that reflects average blood sugar levels over time. It measures how much glucose has attached to hemoglobin inside red blood cells. It is commonly used to diagnose diabetes and to monitor long-term glucose control. Cardiovascular clinicians also use it to understand cardiometabolic risk in many heart and vascular conditions.
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.