proximal Hear it!

proximal Definition

proxi·mal (präk′sə məl)

adjective

  1. proximate; next or nearest
  2. Anat. situated nearest the center of the body or nearest the point of attachment of a muscle, limb, etc.

Etymology: < L proximus (see proximate) + -al

proximal Related Forms
prox′i·mally adverb
proximal Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • tubule: Uranium has a particular effect on the proximal tubules of the kidney.
  • femur: Benefits of oral protein supplementation in elderly patients with fracture of the proximal femur.
  • phalanx: Management of this injury 35, XR of a Salter Harris II # of proximal phalanx of little finger.
  • osteotomy: In a young patient in which femoral head preservation is preferred, however, a proximal femoral osteotomy may be indicated.
  • humerus: It forms the anterior wall and fold of the axilla, extending to attach to the proximal humerus.
  • tibia: The growth plate in the proximal tibia was about 3 mm wide.

Modifying Another Word

  • just: Finally the naso-gastric tube is gently withdrawn until the tip is just proximal to the pyloroplasty.
  • predominantly: Although the symptoms are predominantly proximal, peripheral involvement may also occur ( 3 ).