"Cushing" denotes the particular brand or design of the periosteal elevator, and "8" denotes the instrument's length, which is 8 inches. The Cushing Elevator 8" Left is a surgical tool that is mostly used in neurosurgery procedures. Indicating that the instrument is intended for usage on the left side of the surgical field or for left-handed situations, the "Left" designation refers to the orientation of the blade.