What does the term proximal refer to in anatomy?

The term proximal is used in anatomy to describe the location of a structure in relation to the trunk of the body. When something is described as being proximal, it means that it is situated closer to the main body mass or the center of the body, particularly referring to the trunk or torso. For example, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow, meaning the shoulder is closer to the center of the body than the elbow is.

In discussing the other options, away from the surface refers to a term like deep, which describes structures further from the external surface of the body. Front of the body refers to anterior, while back of the body is termed posterior. These terms deal with different directional perspectives rather than proximity to the trunk. Therefore, the correct understanding of proximal is critical in anatomy for accurately describing relationships between body parts.