Sternocostal

Sternocostal (pronunciation: ster-no-cos-tal) is a term used in anatomy to describe the relationship between the sternum and the ribs.

Etymology

The term "sternocostal" is derived from the Latin words "sternum," meaning chest, and "costa," meaning rib.

Definition

The sternocostal joints are the articulations between the sternum and the costal cartilage of the true ribs. The term can also refer to the sternocostal surface of the heart, which is the part of the heart that faces the sternum and ribs.

Related Terms

Sternum: The sternum or breastbone is a long flat bone located in the center 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.

Costal Cartilage: Costal cartilages are bars of hyaline cartilage that serve to prolong the ribs forward and contribute to the elasticity of the walls of the thorax.

Rib Cage: The rib cage is an arrangement of bones in the thorax of all vertebrates except the lamprey. It is formed by the vertebral column, ribs, and sternum and encloses the heart and lungs.