superomedial

Superomedial is an anatomical directional term describing a location that is both superior (above) and medial (toward the midline) relative to a reference point. It is defined in the standard anatomical position, where the body stands upright with arms at the sides and palms facing forward. The term is used to describe the position of structures, surfaces, or lesions in relation to one another and is often paired with other directional terms such as inferolateral, superolateral, or inferomedial.

Common uses include describing surfaces and angles on bones, the relative position of tissues in the orbit, and the orientation of muscles and neurovascular structures. For example, the superomedial angle or border of the scapula refers to the junction of the scapula’s superior and medial borders. The superomedial aspect of the orbit denotes the region near the intersection of the frontal and lacrimal bones, which is a reference point in orbital anatomy and certain surgical approaches. In imaging and clinical reports, a lesion or region may be described as located in the superomedial quadrant of a given organ or area.

The term is relative; its exact meaning depends on the chosen reference point. Anatomical direction is typically described in three dimensions, with clinicians often using paired terms to convey precise locations. When interpreting superomedial descriptions, it helps to confirm the reference frame and compare with related directions such as superior, medial, or lateral.

See also: medial, superior, inferomedial, superolateral.