Anatomy
Articulates up with manubrium, down with xiphoid process, out with costal cartilages (CC); 2nd and 7th through demifacets, 3rd through 6th with full facets, 8th through 10th indirectly through their articulation with CC above (8th with 7th etc), not at all with 11th and 12th ribs which taper to a point and end in abdominal wall.
Clinical
Sternum (breastbone), long flat T-shaped bony plate, about 17 cm, centre of front of chest, made up of 3 fused sections (manubrium, body, xiphoid process), supports clavicles and through articulation via cartilages with ribs, provides frontal thoracic elasticity which facilitates respiration while protecting organs (heart, major blood vessels, lungs). Shape of a loosened neck tie.
Sternal angle easy to find and as 2nd CC attaches there, is reference point for rib location/counting. Steering wheel fracture; uncommon.
Interested in taking our award-winning Pocket Anatomy app for a test drive?
