Bone · Chest

Sternum

Sternum

The sternum is the breastbone: a flat blade down the front of the chest in three parts — the manubrium at the top, the long body, and the small xiphoid process at the tip. Both collarbones join its upper corners and the upper seven ribs join its sides through cartilage, making it the front anchor of the entire ribcage. The pectoralis major and one head of the sternocleidomastoid take origin from it, and it lifts and swings slightly forward with every deep breath.