Clavicular Notch Of The Sternum

Description

Clavicular notch of the sternum appears as a smooth, oval articular facet on the superolateral margin of the manubrium, positioned lateral to the jugular (suprasternal) notch and superior to the first costal notch. The medial end of the clavicle would align against this surface to form the sternoclavicular joint, with the joint line oriented obliquely so the clavicle sits slightly superior and anterior relative to the manubrial facet. Along the anterior manubrial surface, the transition toward the sternal angle (manubriosternal junction) provides an inferior landmark, while the medial border of the manubrium remains close to midline. Clinically, the clavicular notch matters because it anchors the only true synovial articulation between the upper limb and the axial skeleton, and small changes in joint congruence have outsized effects on shoulder girdle mechanics. Sternoclavicular dislocation and physeal injuries at the medial clavicle can threaten the nearby superior mediastinum, so a precise sense of where the manubrial facet sits relative to the jugular notch and first rib attachment helps with examination, reduction planning, and interpretation of CT. Surface anatomy starts here. The crisp bony margins and subtle concavity of the articular area in this fixed perspective support teaching the fibrocartilaginous disc concept and the typical ligament attachments that stabilize the joint, including the anterior sternoclavicular and costoclavicular ligaments. Use this illustration in thoracic wall and upper limb anatomy modules to orient students to the manubrium, breastbone landmarks, and the sternoclavicular joint line before cadaveric dissection. It also fits orthopedic and emergency medicine references discussing sternoclavicular joint sprain versus dislocation, as well as radiology education focused on localizing medial clavicular injuries and manubrial fractures on cross-sectional imaging. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.