The Manubrium Of The Sternum In Lateral View

Description

Shown in lateral profile, the sternal manubrium sits superior to the sternal body and anterior to the upper thoracic vertebral column, forming the upper segment of the breastbone within the anterior thoracic wall. Along its superolateral margin, the clavicular notch receives the medial end of the clavicle at the sternoclavicular joint, while the costal notch inferiorly articulates with the first costal cartilage and contributes to the second rib attachment at the manubriosternal junction. As the animation progresses, the camera maintains a true side orientation while subtly rotating to clarify the anterior and posterior cortices, the jugular notch contour, and the palpable ridge created by the sternal angle. Clinically, this viewpoint matters because the manubriosternal joint defines the sternal angle (Angle of Louis), the surface landmark used to identify the second rib and count intercostal spaces for auscultation, chest tube placement, and thoracentesis. The sequence also helps explain why sternoclavicular dislocations can compromise retrosternal structures, since the joint lies immediately anterior to the superior mediastinum. Motion adds clarity here, letting the viewer track how the clavicle and first rib relate to the manubrium in depth, not just on a flat silhouette. Use this animation in gross anatomy labs and thoracic wall lectures when teaching bony landmarks, rib numbering, and the relationship between the sternum and the sternoclavicular joint. It also fits radiology or trauma education modules that correlate lateral chest imaging with palpable landmarks during examination. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.