What term is used to describe the trunk of the body without the head and extremities?

The term "torso" refers specifically to the central part of the body, excluding the head and limbs (extremities). It encompasses all the structures between the neck and the pelvis, including the thorax (chest) and the abdomen. This terminology is important in emergency care as it helps to clearly communicate about injuries, conditions, or examinations that pertain specifically to the central body region, aiding in effective assessment and treatment.

In contrast, the other options refer to specific regions of the torso. The pelvis is the lower part of the torso that connects the trunk to the legs, while the abdomen refers to the section of the torso between the chest and the pelvis, containing various organs. The chest, additionally, pertains to the upper part of the torso that houses the heart and lungs. Thus, while all these terms are related to the torso, "torso" is the most accurate representation of the trunk without the head and extremities.