What does the sternum support?

What does the sternum support?

The sternum or breastbone is a long flat bone located in the central part of the chest. It connects to the ribs via cartilage and forms the front of the rib cage, thus helping to protect the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from injury.

What is the sternum in the human body?

The sternum is a partially T-shaped vertical bone that forms the anterior portion of the chest wall centrally. The sternum is divided anatomically into three segments: manubrium, body, and xiphoid process. The sternum connects the ribs via the costal cartilages forming the anterior rib cage.

What is the process of the sternum?

Anatomical terms of bone The xiphoid process /ˈzaɪfɔɪd/, or xiphisternum or metasternum, is a small cartilaginous process (extension) of the inferior (lower) part of the sternum, which is usually ossified in the adult human. It may also be referred to as the ensiform process.

Why is your sternum important?

Your sternum, along with your ribs, works to protect the organs of your torso, such as your heart, lungs, and chest blood vessels. Support. Your sternum also provides a connection point for other parts of your skeletal system, including your collarbone and most of your ribs.

Can you be born without a sternum?

CONGENITAL absence of the sternum, or a complete sternal cleft, is a rare chest wall malformation resulting from failed midline fusion during embryonic development. This abnormality can cause significant morbidity and, like other congenital anomalies, can have associated defects.

Does the sternum grow back together?

The sternum is wired back together after the surgery to facilitate proper healing. During the healing phase, the wired sternum is vulnerable to the expansion of breathing muscles, which may loosen the wires over time.

What happens if a baby is born without a sternum?

The absence of a sternum introduces multiple risks to the patient, including mediastinal injury, hypothermia, insensible fluid losses, and respiratory and hemodynamic sequelae [1]. The condition can be diagnosed prenatally or at birth.

Is pectus Carinatum congenital?

Pectus carinatum brace Pectus carinatum is an uncommon birth defect in which a child’s breastbone protrudes outward abnormally.

What do doctors do for a broken sternum?

To treat a broken sternum, you will likely be ordered to simply rest as your body heals. Ice may be applied to your chest to help reduce swelling and pain. You may also take over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. If the pain is too severe, stronger pain medication may be necessary.

What type of functions does the sternum have?

The Anatomy of the Sternum Anatomy. The sternum as a whole has been compared to an upside-down sword due to the rectangular part at the top resembling a handle. Function. The sternum connects the first six ribs in the middle of the chest while serving as a strong protector of the stomach, heart, and lungs which lie below. Associated Conditions. Treatment.

What is the function of the sternum?

The sternum, or breastbone, is a long, flat, bony plate that forms the most anterior section of the rib cage. The primary function of the sternum is the protection of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels from physical damage.

What is under or below the sternum?

One of the most common points within this area to experience pain or lumps is just below the lower sternum . This special section is scientifically known as the xiphoid process, and represents a very small bone piece just underneath. When we’re born, the xiphoid process begins as cartilage and slowly hardens into bone as we progress into adulthood.

What is the purpose of the ribs and sternum?

The ribs and sternum make up what is called the ‘ribcage.’ The ribcage protects the lungs, blood vessels, and heart, along with parts of the spleen, stomach, and kidneys from traumatic injury. The sternum is attached to the first seven ribs and also to the clavicle, or collarbone.