Anatomical Planes of the Body

Written by Keith Bridwell, MD; Reviewed by Mary Rodts, DNP

Peer Reviewed

Medical professionals often refer to sections of the body in terms of anatomical planes (flat surfaces). These planes are imaginary lines – vertical or horizontal – drawn through an upright body. The terms are used to describe a specific body part.

anatomical planes

Listed below are general anatomical terms and their meanings.

Anatomical Planes
Coronal Plane or Frontal Plane
Sagittal Plane or Lateral Plane
Axial Plane or Transverse Plane

Anatomical Terms	Direction
Medial	Toward the midline of the body
Lateral	Away from the midline of the body
Proximal	Toward a reference point (extremity)
Distal	Away from a reference point (extremity)
Inferior	Lower or below
Superior	Upper or above
Cephalad or Cranial	Head
Caudal or Caudad	Tail, tail end
Anterior	Toward the front
Posterior	Toward the back
Dorsal	Posterior
Ventral	Anterior

Commentary by Mary Rodts, DNP

Understanding the terminology associated with spinal problems is very important as health care providers discuss the problems and the solutions for the spinal disorder with patients and families. This article helps clarify a difficult topic.

Updated on: 10/30/18

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