3 Key Considerations for Technical Medical Document Translation

Medical translation and healthcare translation are one of the toughest and most difficult translations among other industries. Due to the complex nature of medical terminology, it can be tough to translate into multiple languages. Not surprisingly, the field of life sciences requires professional translation solutions for life science.

The language in the medical field uses terms that are not only unique but also appear with varying spellings in different languages. Additionally, medical abbreviations may hold different meanings in different languages. What makes medical document translation even tougher is the sensitivity of the translation. Any error or mistranslation can have disastrous consequences for all the stakeholders involved.

Owing to the complex nature of the life science technical documents translation, it is vital to keep some considerations in mind when translating technical medical content. Let us take a look at some of these key considerations.

Key Considerations for Technical Medical Document Translation

There are various medical documents that are of technical nature and require extensive scrutiny. Some of the documents that require expert translation are medical device manuals, product information, instruction manuals, scientific research, physician notes, protocol documents, labels for medical equipment, pharmacological instructions, and reference guides.

To translate these technical medical documents, here are some considerations to keep in mind:

Medical Documents Require Subject Matter Expertise

Some medical translators have basic knowledge of medical terms, which may not be adequate for technical medical content. The more specific the subject matter expertise of the translators, the easier it will be for them to translate. Since different types of documents contain different terms for specific audiences, it is vital that medical translators have subject matter expertise.

Only a subject matter expert is able to grasp the meaning of correct medical terminology and can translate medical terms within context. This is why it is important to choose translators with subject matter expertise.

Medical Term Base Should Include Approved Technical Translations

A term base is a repository for managing terms that are commonly used in every translation project. However, the term base for technical medical documents needs to be updated from time to time. This will make the translation of technical content easier. A company’s term base should specifically include approved translations for technical terms that are specific to that company.

Along with maintaining the term base, it is also vital to share this term base with language service providers. Doing so will ensure uniformity between the current and the previous documents. This will also save time on the current translation projects while eliminating any need to confirm specific choices of words. Additionally, this term base should grow alongside the company as it adds new medical terms and vocabulary.

Medical Documents Require Multiple Word Registers

One of the toughest and most important considerations for medical technical document translation is the multiple-word registers. Medical branches across different languages have different word registers that must be incorporated for error-free translation. For example, many body parts are called by one word in a more elevated register which is strictly for medical use. The other word is in a lower register for colloquial use. The same part of the body is referenced as “thorax” which is a strictly medical register, and “chest”, which is a colloquial use register.

In translating technical medical documents, it is important to consider that certain languages may use only one word for both registers.  Others may use more than two words. Consequently, when translating technical medical terms, context and register must also be considered for accurate medical translation.

Key Takeaway

Medical documents of technical nature require extensive scrutiny and careful translation. During the translation of technical terms, it is imperative to know about some considerations for technical translations. More importantly, it is critical to hire an expert medical translation agency. This industry should specialize in the translation of different medical aspects, such as delivering comprehensive scientific translation services and medical terminology translation.