Lecture Notes: Anatomy of the Sternum

Introduction

• Lecturer: Dr. B
• Topic: Anatomy of the sternum

Components of the Sternum

1. Manubrium
   • Located at the top of the sternum
   • Features:
     • Clavicular Notches: Located on either side for articulation with the clavicle
     • Suprasternal Notch: The notch felt between the two clavicles
2. Body of the Sternum
   • The largest and central part of the sternum
   • Sternal Angle: Line separating the manubrium from the body
3. Xiphoid Process
   • Small, pointed bone at the bottom of the sternum

Cartilages Associated with the Sternum

• Costal Cartilages: Attach the ribs to the sternum
  • True Costal Cartilages: Seven pairs (ribs 1-7)
    • Each rib has its own individual attachment site to the sternum
  • False Costal Cartilages: Three pairs (ribs 8-10)
    • These ribs share one attachment point to the body of the sternum
  • Floating Ribs: Two pairs (not attached to the sternum)
    • These ribs do not have costal cartilages

Rib Articulation

• Ribs and Cartilage
  • Total of twelve pairs of ribs
  • Ten costal cartilages in total due to floating ribs

Summary

• The sternum consists of three main parts: the manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.
• Costal cartilages serve as the attachment points for ribs, categorized as true, false, and floating.
• The clavicle articulates with the sternum at the clavicular notches.