Anatomical Position: Anterior/Ventral – Posterior/Dorsal

Anatomical terms used for explaining the location are according to a body placed in what is referred to as a standard anatomical position.

While maps are generally directed having north at the top, the normal body “map,” or anatomical position, is that of

• The body standing straight.
• The feet parallel as well as at shoulder width.
• Toes pointed forward.
• The upper limbs are kept out towards each side.
• The palms of the hands face forwards.

Terminology

Anterior or ventral and posterior or dorsal explain the location of structures with respect to the “front” and “back” of the body.

• Anterior or ventral is used for describing the position of structures that are relative to frontal part of body.
• Posterior or dorsal is used to indicate position of structures that located at the back of a certain part.

General Example:

• The nose is an anterior (ventral) structure.
• The vertebral column is a posterior (dorsal) structure.

Also

• The nose is located anterior towards the ears.
• The vertebral column is posterior towards the sternum.

Specific Examples:

• The trachea is located directly anterior towards the esophagus.
• Femur is located posterior towards patella.