anatomical planes

Sagittal

Extends vertically and divides the body into right and left portions.

Mid Sagittal (median)

Passes through the midline of the body, dividing it into equal right and left halves.

Parasagittal

Divides the body into unequal right and left portions.

Frontal

Divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) parts.

Transverse

Passes across the body or an organ, dividing it into superior (above) and inferior (below) portions.

Anterior

Toward the front of the body.

Posterior

Toward the back of the body.

Superior

Above; toward the head.

Inferior

Below; away from the head.

Medial

Toward the midline of the body.

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Closer to the point of attachment of the limbs.

Distal

Further away from the point of attachment of the limbs.