What is the term for the vertical plane that divides the body into left and right halves?

The term for the vertical plane that divides the body into left and right halves is known as the sagittal plane. This plane runs from the front to the back of the body, splitting it into symmetrical sections. When the plane divides the body right down the middle, creating two equal halves, it is specifically referred to as the midsagittal or median plane.

Understanding this concept is essential in anatomy and medical fields as it provides a clear framework for describing locations and movements within the body, facilitating communication among healthcare professionals. It assists in visualizing anatomical structures and also in performing medical procedures, where precise localization is crucial.

In contrast, the coronal plane (or frontal plane) divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections, while the transverse plane (or horizontal plane) separates the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. Both of these planes serve different purposes in anatomical orientation and are not used to specifically denote the left and right divisions of the body.