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Anatomy & Physiology: Orientation and Directional Terms

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  • What is the anatomical position?

    Anatomical position is the standard reference position used when describing directional terms in the body.

  • Define 'Superior (cranial)' in anatomy.

    Superior (cranial) means toward the head or upper part of the body; above another structure.

  • Give an example of a superior anatomical relationship.

    The head is superior to the abdomen.

  • Define 'Inferior (caudal)' in anatomy.

    Inferior (caudal) means away from the head or toward the lower part of the body; below another structure.

  • Give an example of an inferior anatomical relationship.

    The abdomen is inferior to the head.

  • Define 'Ventral (anterior)' in anatomy.

    Ventral (anterior) means toward or at the front of the body; in front of another structure.

  • Give an example of a ventral anatomical relationship.

    The breastbone is ventral to the spine.

  • Define 'Dorsal (posterior)' in anatomy.

    Dorsal (posterior) means toward or at the back of the body; behind another structure.

  • Give an example of a dorsal anatomical relationship.

    The spine is dorsal to the breastbone.