Learning Modules - Medical Gross Anatomy
Anatomical Orientation - Page 4 of 9

    
Superficial - Deep
A superficial structure is closer to the body surface (skin) than a deeper structure.
Example: The sternum (breast-bone) is superficial to the more deeply lying heart.
Superior - Inferior
Superior means toward the top of the head. Inferior means toward the bottom of the feet. Cranial and caudal are often used interchangeably with superior and inferior.
Example: The heart is superior to the liver.

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