Radiographic Body Planes and Anatomy References

Vocabulary flashcards covering primary, fundamental, and special body planes used in radiographic positioning and spatial orientation.

Midsagittal Plane (MSP)

divides the body into equal right and left halves

Sagittal Plane

vertical plane from anterior to posterior diving the body into right and left sections

Midcoronal Plane (MCP / Midaxillary)

divides the body into equal anterior and posterior halves

Coronal Plane

vertical plane from the right to left side that divides the body into anterior and posterior sections

Horizontal / Transverse / Axial / Cross-Sectional Plane

a transverse plane that divides the body into superior and inferior sections

Oblique Plane

a plane that transects coronal, sagittal or horizontal planes

Interiliac Plane

A special plane that transects the pelvis at the top of the iliac crests at the level of the 4th lumbar vertebra ($L4$). It serves as a localized reference plane for lumbar spine and pelvic anatomy.

Base Plane / Reid's Base Line

A special plane extending from the infraorbital line (inferior orbital margin) to the base of the skull (EAM). It serves as an anthropological baseline used in skull positioning.

Occlusal Plane

A special plane formed by the biting surfaces of upper and lower teeth with jaws closed (or top incisors to base of skull with open mouth). It is used in dental and facial bone radiography.