Sagittal plane

Definition

The sagittal plane is a vertical anatomical boundary that divides the body into left and right halves. It can be further classified into midsagittal (median) when it runs directly down the middle and parasagittal when it is offset from the center.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The midsagittal plane specifically refers to the plane that divides the body into equal left and right halves.
2. Movements such as flexion and extension typically occur along the sagittal plane.
3. The sagittal plane is perpendicular to both the coronal (frontal) and transverse planes.
4. Understanding the sagittal plane is crucial for discussing anatomical positions, directional terms, and movements in biology.
5. In imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans, sagittal sections provide detailed views of structures in a lateral perspective.

Review Questions

• What types of body movements occur along the sagittal plane?
• How does the midsagittal plane differ from a parasagittal plane?
• Why is understanding the sagittal plane important in anatomy?

Related terms

coronalPlane: A vertical anatomical boundary that divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections.

transversePlane: A horizontal anatomical boundary that divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts.

flexion: A movement that decreases the angle between two body parts, often occurring along the sagittal plane.