Bone
Sternum
Midline support for the front of the rib cage
High-yield
The second costal cartilage meets the sternal angle, making it useful for rib counting. T4–T5 is the conventional vertebral reference for this angle, with normal variation.
Overview
The clavicles and upper costal cartilages meet this flat bone at the front of the chest. Its manubrium, body and xiphoid process form a superior-to-inferior sequence; the ridge between the first two is the sternal angle.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Flat bone
- Key landmarks
- Manubrium; Sternal body; Xiphoid process; Manubriosternal angle; Jugular notch; Clavicular notches
- Articulations
- Clavicles at the sternoclavicular joints; costal cartilages of ribs 1–7
Clinical correlation
The palpable angle helps orient a chest examination. It is an approximate surface guide: the tracheal split and great vessels do not occupy exactly the same level in every person or respiratory phase.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the sternum?
The sternum is a flat bone bone.
What does the sternum articulate with?
Clavicles at the sternoclavicular joints; costal cartilages of ribs 1–7.
What are the key landmarks of the sternum?
Manubrium; Sternal body; Xiphoid process; Manubriosternal angle; Jugular notch; Clavicular notches.