Answer
The sternum is also called the breastbone. Structurally, it can be divided into three regions, namely, manubrium (head) , the gladiolus (shaft) and the dagger-like xiphoid process
The manubrium is the knob-shaped head. locate about the level of vertebrae T3 -T4. The centrally located suprasternal or jugular notch in the superior border of the manubrium is easily palpated ;the right and left clavicular notches of the manubrium articulate with the clavicles or collarbones.
Work Step by Step
The gladiolus is the central portion of the manubrium and it is the longest , extending from T5-T9. The juncture of manubrium and gladiolus forms the sternal angle which is an important anatomical landmark. The second ribs attach to the sternum at the manubrium-gladiolar juncture which enhances the importance of this anatomical landmark.
The third part of the manubrium is the xiphisternum. It is the inferior end piece of the sternum, and is located between T10-T11. Some abdominal muscles attach to the xphisternum/xiphoid with its cartilaginous end. Rescuers doing CPR should take care not to injure the liver by pressing the xiphoid cartilage into the tissue of the liver. This could have fatal consequences.
