What does distal mean in anatomical terms?

In anatomical terms, "distal" refers to a location that is farther from the trunk or the point of origin of a structure. For instance, when discussing limbs, the fingers are considered distal to the wrist because they are located further away from the body’s central axis. This term is often used in contrast to "proximal," which describes structures that are closer to the trunk or the starting point.

Understanding the meaning of "distal" is crucial for accurately describing locations of injuries, anatomy, or surgical interventions, which is a significant part of the coding process in healthcare. This knowledge helps coders select the correct codes and accurately document patient conditions or treatments.