The sternum connects the ribs and the clavicle anteriorly and provides the anterior border of the thoracic cavity.

Description

The sternum consists of three parts:

  1. Manubrium
  2. Body
  3. Xiphoid process

They connect together by synchondrosis (cartilaginous joint), which ossify during adulthood.

Figure 1. The sternum and manubrium.

Manubrium

Trapezoidal-shaped bone, which is the thickest and widest out of the three

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