What does the prefix "antero-" mean in a medical context?

The prefix "antero-" in a medical context refers to "before" or "front." It is used to describe a position or location that is oriented towards the front part of the body in anatomical terms. For instance, "anterior" denotes something that is situated towards the front, as opposed to "posterior," which indicates a position towards the back. In this case, "before" effectively captures the meaning of the prefix, as it relates to being ahead in the body's orientation or structure. This is essential in medical terminology to communicate precise anatomical locations and relationships, ensuring clarity in the description of medical conditions, procedures, or anatomical references.