- The sternum is located in the anterior chest.
- The sternum has three parts: manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.
- The sternum articulates with:
- the clavicle laterally, forming the sternoclavicular joint.
- the ribs laterally, forming the sternocostal joints.
NOTES:
- The manubrium is the superior aspect of the sternum; the largest part of the sternum is called the body; the xiphoid process is the most inferior aspect of the sternum.
- The xiphoid process remains cartilage for a long time, not ossifying until well into adulthood.
- The sternocostal joints are actually between the sternum and the costal cartilages of the ribs.
The sternum. The manubrium and body of the sternum are seen (the xiphoid process is not seen).
The bony thorax. The xiphoid process of the sternum is seen here. Note: This is not the same sternum as seen in the other photograph here.
