A coronal, or frontal, image separates the front and back portions of the body. It shows the spine from a frontal perspective and helps assess side-to-side relationships among vertebrae, the pelvis and nearby tissues within the scanned area.
Meaning on imaging
A coronal image displays the body in a frontal plane. It complements sagittal and axial images, which show different anatomical relationships. Slices may be angled slightly to follow a particular region. The word coronal identifies an orientation and does not indicate the presence of disease.
Indications and assessment
In spinal imaging, this view may help clarify a lateral curve, unusual anatomy or an abnormality near the sacrum and pelvis. It is not included in the same way in every imaging protocol. The radiologist selects acquisitions according to the question that the examination needs to answer.
Limitations and interpretation
A coronal MRI slice is not equivalent to a standing radiograph of the entire spine. Posture, coverage and technique affect interpretation of spinal curves. Vertebral rotation and the depth of structures require assessment in several planes, rather than simply judging whether the two sides appear symmetrical.
Role of TAGMED care
At TAGMED, a coronal view can help explain an existing radiology report. Visible asymmetry alone does not justify traction or a promise to straighten the spine. Care goals should address symptoms and function. An evolving deformity may require specialist assessment, depending on age, growth and the clinical findings.
Frequently asked questions
Does coronal mean frontal?
Yes. In this context the two terms refer to the same family of anatomical planes.
Is it always an X-ray?
No. MRI and reconstructed CT examinations can also provide coronal images.
Can it show scoliosis?
It can display a curve, but measurement and monitoring require an appropriate imaging protocol.
Does asymmetry explain pain?
Not automatically. Findings must be matched to the clinical history and physical examination.
Why does my examination lack this view?
Each protocol addresses a particular question; absence of a coronal view does not necessarily mean an incomplete examination.
Original conceptual diagram; no patient diagnostic image.
Medical references
- National Cancer Institute, SEER Training. Anatomical Terminology.
- Scoliosis Research Society. Glossary — Three-Dimensional Terminology of Spinal Deformity.
- RadiologyInfo.org — ACR, RSNA et ASRT. Spine MRI.
References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.
Educational information from The Spine Page. This entry does not replace an individual assessment. Documentary version: October 12, 2026. Sylvain Desforges, B.Sc., D.O., N.D., osteopath and naturopath.
TAGMED clinic contact details
For non-urgent consultations and information about available services.
Clinique TAGMED — Terrebonne
1150, rue Lévis, Suite 200
Terrebonne (Québec) J6W 5S6
450‑704‑4447
Clinique TAGMED — Montréal
1140, avenue Beaumont
Mont-Royal (Québec) H3P 3E5
1‑877‑672‑9060