PROXIMAL Meaning and
Definition
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The term "proximal" is an adjective that refers to a point or location near the center or origin of a structure, typically used in medical, anatomical, and scientific contexts. It describes the relative position of a body part or structure in relation to another body part or structure within the same organism.
In anatomical terms, "proximal" is often employed to indicate a body part that is closer to the body's midline or closer to the point of attachment. For instance, in vertebrate anatomy, the proximal end of a limb refers to the end closest to where the limb attaches to the body, while the distal end refers to the opposite end farther away from the attachment.
In medical diagnosis and procedures, the term is used to describe the location of a particular abnormality or condition in relation to the body's center or point of origin. For example, when assessing fractures, a proximal fracture is one that occurs closer to the body's core or origin, while a distal fracture is farther away from it.
In sum, "proximal" serves as a relative positional term, highlighting the proximity or closeness of a body part or structure in relation to its point of origin or another point of reference. This term proves crucial for accurate communication, especially in medical, anatomical, and scientific fields.
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1. Nearest the trunk or the point of origin, said of part of an extremity, of an artery or a nerve, etc., so situated; in dentistry, mesial; opposed to distal. 2. In dental anatomy, noting the surface of a tooth in relation with its neighbor, whether mesial or distal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PROXIMAL
Etymology of PROXIMAL
The word "proximal" comes from the Latin word "proximus", which means "nearest". It is derived from the Latin term "prope", meaning "near". The term is often used in scientific and medical contexts to describe a body part or structure that is closer to the point of origin or attachment.
Similar spelling words for PROXIMAL
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