Anatomical Directional Terms

What does 'anterior' refer to in anatomy?

What does a midline refer to in anatomical terms?

What does the term 'posterior' refer to in anatomy?

Which position is referred to as 'lateral' when viewed from the side?

Which term describes the position that toward the head or upper part of a structure, as viewed from a bird's-eye view looking down?

Which of the following statements accurately describes the term 'medial' in anatomical terms?

Which of the following best describes the term 'inferior' in anatomy?

What does 'distal' refer to in anatomical terms?

Which term refers to a position away from the surface of the body?

Proximal means what in relation to a structure?

Anatomical Terms

Anterior: Refers to the front side of the body; structures toward the front are classified as anterior.
Midline: The central line that divides the body into left and right halves; point of reference for bilateral symmetry.
Posterior: Refers to the back side of the body; structures located toward the rear are classified as posterior.
Lateral: Refers to structures situated away from the midline; viewed from the side, lateral positions are to the sides of the midline.
Superior: Indicates a position toward the head or upper part of a structure; viewed from above, superior elements are positioned higher.
Medial: Pertains to structures located closer to the midline; the term describes a position closer to the center of the body than others.
Inferior: Describes a position away from the head or toward the lower part of a structure; viewed from above, inferior elements are positioned lower.
Distal: Refers to structures that are farther away from the point of attachment or trunk of the body; more distant from the center.
Deep: Describes positions that are farther from the surface of the body; internal structures are considered deep.
Proximal: Indicates a position closer to the point of attachment or trunk of the body; more central than distal.

Radiology is a branch of medicine which uses x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized axial tomography (CAT), and ultrasounds to diagnose and treat disease. Being familiar with the terminology used in the positioning of a patient as the radiological procedure is performed, helps the coder in code assignment.