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.