Body Orientation in Anatomy

Ways to describe anatomical structures positions with respect to the rest of the body.  Mostly for human anatomy.  

26 cards   |   Total Attempts: 188
  

Cards In This Set

Front Back
Median
Plane that divides the body into two equal halves, on the left and right, with the body in the anatomical position.
Sagittal
Plane that divides the body into two left and right parts, not necessarily equal, with the body in the anatomical position.
Coronal
Plane that divides the body into front and back parts, with the body in the anatomical position. Also, Frontal.
Frontal
Plane that divides the body into front and back parts, with the body in the anatomical position. Also, Coronal.
Transverse
Plane that divides the body into upper and lower parts, with the body in the anatomical position. Also, Cross.
Cross
Plane that divides the body into upper and lower parts, with the body in the anatomical position. Also, Transverse.
Cranial
Closer to the head. Not used wrt the limbs. Also, Superior, Rostral.
Superior
Closer to the head. Not used wrt the limbs. Also, Cranial, Rostral.
Rostral
Closer to the head. Not used wrt the limbs. Also, Cranial, Superior.
What is a body system?
A group of organs and structures which all contribute to a particular function of the body.
Anterior
Closer to the front. For humans, it is the same as, but more commonly used than, Ventral. Opposite of Posterior, Dorsal.
Ventral.
Closer to the front. For humans, it is the same as, but not as good to use as, Anterior. Belly.
Posterior
Closer to the back. Same as, but better to use than, Dorsal.
Dorsal
Better to use "Posterior". Closer to the back. Back side.
Medial
Closer to the Median plane. Opposite of Lateral.