Manubrium Of The Sternum, Anatomy

Description

Manubrium sterni occupies the superior midline of the anterior thoracic wall, sitting cranial to the body of the sternum (gladiolus) and centered between the medial ends of the clavicles. Superiorly, the jugular (suprasternal) notch forms the palpable midline concavity, while the paired clavicular notches lie inferolateral to it and define the articular surfaces for the sternoclavicular joints. Along the lateral borders, the costal notches for the first costal cartilages are evident, and the inferior margin meets the sternal body at the manubriosternal junction. Bony contours are the focus. Clinically, the manubrium is a high-yield landmark for both examination and operative planning: its junction with the sternal body corresponds to the sternal angle (angle of Louis), a surface reference used to localize the second costal cartilage and count ribs and intercostal spaces during chest tube placement, thoracentesis, and cardiac auscultation mapping. Trauma also targets this region, as sternoclavicular dislocation and manubrial fractures can threaten the retrosternal great vessels and trachea, making the exact extent of the clavicular facets and manubriosternal contour more than academic detail. The fixed perspective and isolated bony presentation make the margins of each notch and articular surface easy to trace for teaching and labeling. Use this illustration in thoracic anatomy modules, osteology practicals, and radiology correlation sections that introduce how the sternoclavicular joint aligns with the thoracic inlet and mediastinal structures. It also fits surgical education materials covering median sternotomy landmarks, central venous access orientation, and documentation figures for anterior chest wall fractures. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.