What is the process of the sternum called?

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 does process mean in xiphoid process?

Medical Definition of xiphoid process : the smallest and lowest division of the human sternum that is cartilaginous early in life but becomes more or less ossified during adulthood. — called also ensiform cartilage, ensiform process.

What is the process at the base of the sternum?

The xiphoid process is a tiny bone structure located at the center of the chest, just below the lower part of the sternum. At birth, the xiphoid process is formed from cartilage that eventually develops into bone.

What is the function of sternum?

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.

What organ is behind xiphoid process?

Acid reflux can irritate the lining of the esophagus, and since the esophagus is located behind the breastbone, xiphoid process pain can develop along with reflux symptoms. Other factors that contribute to xiphoid process pain include: heart disease. overeating.

What organ lies behind the xiphoid process?

What does it mean when your xiphoid process hurts?

Xiphoid syndrome involves painful swelling and discomfort of the xiphoid process of the sternum [1]. Inflammation of the xiphoid process, causing xiphodynia, arises from mechanical injury to that anatomic region. The prevalence of xiphoid syndrome is not well known as there is limited literature on this rare condition.

How is the xiphoid process attached?

Anatomy Explorer It is widest at its superior end where it is attached to the body of the sternum by a thin, slightly movable fibrous joint (syndesmosis).

What is the xiphoid process of the sternum?

Xiphoid Process of Sternum. The xiphoid process is the smallest and most inferior region of the sternum, or breastbone. At birth, it is a thin, roughly triangular region of cartilage that slowly ossifies into a bone and fuses with the body of the sternum.

What is the sternum?

The sternum is also known as the breastbone. It is a flat bone that articulates with the clavicle and the costal cartilages of the upper 7 ribs (true ribs), while the 8th, 9th and 10th ribs (false ribs) are indirectly attached with sternum via costal cartilage of the ribs above. The bone is divided into three parts:

How do doctors apply pressure to the sternum?

Usually, doctors will apply pressure to the xiphoid process, the sternum, and rib cage area around the sternum. For example, pressing on the xiphoid process may cause sharp pain at the lower part of the sternum.

What is the function of the sternum in a biopsy?

The sternum is used as the site for bone marrow biopsy in obese or overweight patients, where access to the iliac crest is limited. Pectus excavatum is a condition also known as funnel chest, where the sternum and superior ribs grow abnormally, created a sunken chest appearance.