American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which anatomical plane cuts horizontally through the body?

1. Sagittal plane

2. Frontal (coronal) plane

3. Transverse (horizontal) plane

4. Longitudinal plane

The correct answer is: Transverse (horizontal) plane

The anatomical plane that cuts horizontally through the body is known as the transverse (or horizontal) plane. This plane divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts, allowing for a clear distinction between the sections above and below this plane. It is essential in various medical imaging techniques, such as CT scans, where it provides a cross-sectional view of the body, aiding in a comprehensive understanding of anatomy and the location of internal structures. Understanding the transverse plane is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it helps in explaining surgical approaches, diagnosing conditions, and interpreting the relationships between different anatomical structures. In contrast, other planes, like the sagittal plane, divides the body into left and right sections, and the frontal (or coronal) plane separates the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections, both serving different purposes in anatomical orientation.