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dorsal


dorsal and volar
DORSAL – indicates the back of the hand, foot, or trunk, or of an organ.
VOLAR – used to describe the palm of the hand and the sole of the foot.
anterior, posterior, superior, and inferior
Relating to or situated at or close to the back of the body or to the posterior part of an organ (from the Latin dorsum = the back). In an animal that walks on all fours, the dorsal surface is its back. By extension, in all vertebrates it is the surface along which the spine runs. In animals that walk on two legs, such as humans, it is therefore the surface that faces backward, or the posterior surface.

In human anatomy, the term "dorsal" is generally only applied to the hand and fingers, and the foot and toes, and in these cases refers to the upper surfaces (e.g., the "back" of the hand). The opposite is plantar or volar.

In fish, the dorsal fin is the main fin running along the top of the body.


Related entry

   • surface anatomy


Related category

   • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY


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