What is the term for a cut that divides the body into right and left halves?

The term that describes a cut dividing the body into right and left halves is "sagittal." This anatomical term is derived from the Latin word "sagitta," which means arrow, emphasizing the way the cut runs vertically down the body. When a sagittal plane is used, it specifically refers to any plane parallel to the midline, with the median sagittal plane being the one that divides the body directly down the middle into equal right and left halves.

In contrast, the frontal plane divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections, while the transverse plane creates a separation into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. The term "coronal" is another name often used interchangeably with the frontal plane but typically emphasizes the separation of the front and back. Understanding these definitions is crucial for accurately interpreting anatomical positions and relations in the field of chiropractic practice and healthcare in general.