Anatomical Planes Overview

Jun 14, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the three main anatomical planes used to section the human body, explaining how each slice reveals different structures and aids in understanding three-dimensional anatomy.

Anatomical Planes of Section

  • Anatomical planes are imaginary lines used to cut the body for observation and study.
  • Understanding anatomical planes helps identify which structures appear in each type of bodily slice.
  • Each section creates a flat surface of the body, showing internal arrangements of organs and tissues.

Frontal (Coronal) Plane

  • The frontal (coronal) plane divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) parts.
  • A section made in this plane is called a frontal or coronal section.
  • The term "coronal" is associated with a crown or corona, like sunbeams around the head.

Sagittal Plane

  • The sagittal plane divides the body into left and right sections.
  • A midsagittal (median) section divides exactly at the midline, resulting in equal left and right halves.
  • A sagittal section off the midline creates unequal right and left parts.
  • Clues from organs included in the section (e.g., heart, lungs) help determine if the slice is truly midsagittal.

Transverse Plane

  • The transverse plane divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts.
  • A transverse section is often called a cross-section.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Frontal (Coronal) Plane — divides the body into front and back sections.
  • Sagittal Plane — divides the body into left and right sections.
  • Midsagittal (Median) Plane — divides the body into equal left and right halves at the midline.
  • Transverse Plane — divides the body into upper and lower sections.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review and write down definitions and characteristics of each anatomical plane.
  • Prepare for the next lecture on body cavities.