Leftlateral

Leftlateral is a directional term used in anatomy and medicine to describe something situated toward or pertaining to the left side of the body relative to the midline. It is commonly used in contrast to right-lateral and bilateral descriptions. In anatomical contexts, left-lateral designations help specify the location of structures or lesions, such as the left lateral ventricle of the brain or the left lateral surface of an organ.

In medical imaging and procedures, leftlateral appears in several forms. A left lateral view or projection indicates that the patient's left side is closest to the imaging receptor, providing a side-on perspective of thoracic, abdominal, or other structures. A left lateral decubitus position places the patient lying on the left side and is used to optimize visualization of certain conditions, including left-sided pleural effusions and other thoracic or abdominal findings. The term can also describe patient positioning during procedures where access or organ orientation benefits from a left-side approach.

In clinical practice, the left lateral position is notable for its effect on hemodynamics. In obstetrics and anesthesia, placing a patient in a left lateral position or tilt reduces aortocaval compression by the uterus and can improve venous return and stability in late pregnancy or during procedures.

Etymology stems from Latin lateralis (of the side) combined with the English left. See also right-lateral, bilateral, and decubitus.