Can you ignore the extra numbers/letters for transistors?

[Hiwatt25]

When looking for transistors (Ex:2N5088) I often find that there will be extra numbers/letters after the main part number.  Not being too tech savvy yet, I'm wondering if the additional nomenclature can be ignored. 

Would a 2N5088 work just as well as a say 2N5088TA?

[Seljer]

Usually there aren't any major differences in the actual working of the components (a couple of transistors use that letter to designate the gain range)

however read the datasheets and make sure that number doesn't mean you're accidently going to order surface mount componets instead of regular ones

[Hiwatt25]

Very cool.  Thanks for the input.