How do sagittal and coronal planes differ in anatomical orientation?

Prepare for AAMI Anatomy 1. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions with explanations, and detailed study aids. Succeed on your exam!

Understanding planes of orientation comes down to what they split. A sagittal plane is a vertical slice that runs from front to back and divides the body into left and right portions (a midsagittal plane is the special case that splits into equal left and right halves). A coronal plane is also vertical but runs from side to side, separating the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions. So the description that sagittal divides left and right and coronal divides anterior and posterior is the accurate one. Other statements mix up directions—superior/inferior is a horizontal division, and proximal/distal relate to limb segments rather than a general plane.