Which anatomical terms refer to the sides of the vertebrae?

The term that correctly refers to the sides of the vertebrae is “left and right.” In anatomical terminology, the terms "left" and "right" are used to describe locations or positions relative to the body in its standard anatomical position. This position is defined with the person standing upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward. Thus, the left side of the body is the left side when viewed from the perspective of the person standing in that position, making it clear and consistent when referencing the sides of various structures, including the vertebrae.

Other terms related to anatomy serve different purposes: "medial" refers to structures closer to the midline of the body, while "lateral" refers to structures further away from the midline. "Anterior" and "posterior" describe front and back, respectively, and "superior" and "inferior" refer to structures that are above or below another structure. These terms do not specifically indicate the sides of the vertebrae, reinforcing why "left and right" is the most accurate choice in this context.