Contents
Image: Sternum from ventral (Linkmap)
Sternum (breastbone)
three-part bone (manubrium, corpus, processus xiphoideus) in the ventral thorax, which attaches to the ribs, origin for many muscles. The sternum rises cranially with a noticeable ventral movement during chest (in)breathing and lowers during exhalation. Some muscles attached to the sternum are therefore also expiratory respiratory muscles or inspiratory respiratory muscles. The sternum provides bony protection for the mediastinum behind it.
Manubrium
the small cranial part of the sternum, the origin of some muscles such as the sternothyroid and sternohyoid muscles.
Corpus
the large middle part of the sternum, origin for muscles such as pectoralis major
Processus xiphoideus
the small, spine-like caudal part of the sternum, origin for muscles such as transversus thoracis, diaphragm
Joints
- Sternocostal joint / sternochondral joint
- Sternoclavicular joint
Tapes
For the ligaments, see the corresponding joints sternocostal joint and sternoclavicular joint.
Pictures
Sternum from the side
Ligaments (Bild links to Linkmap)
Manubrium with sternocostal joint and sternoclavicular joint (image links to linkmap)
