The Anatomical Structure and Location of the Sternum

Description

Anterior thoracic wall anatomy is presented from a lateral perspective, with the sternum (breastbone) highlighted to orient the manubrium superiorly, the sternal body centrally, and the tapered xiphoid process inferiorly. Costal cartilages curve anteriorly from the ribs to meet the sternum at the sternocostal joints, while the intercostal spaces separate adjacent ribs laterally. Posteriorly, the ribs track back to the thoracic vertebrae, linking the anterior sternum to the vertebral column across the thoracic cage. A side view like this clarifies how the sternum functions as an anterior strut for the rib cage and why joint levels matter clinically. The manubriosternal junction (sternal angle) marks the level of the 2nd costal cartilage, the working landmark for rib counting during chest examination, ECG lead placement, and tube thoracostomy planning. The inferior xiphoid region also matters during CPR and subxiphoid approaches, where misplacement can contribute to xiphoid fracture or upper abdominal injury. Faculty can drop this figure straight into thoracic anatomy and surface anatomy teaching to tie bony landmarks to costal cartilage and rib numbering, and authors can use it in clinical skills chapters covering auscultation landmarks and anterior chest wall procedures. It also suits patient-facing explanations of sternal pain patterns, costochondritis, and post-sternotomy precautions in cardiothoracic care. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.