STERNAL LINE Meaning and
Definition
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The sternal line refers to an anatomical feature that represents the central axis or midline of the chest. It is a distinct groove or depression on the anterior (front) surface of the sternum, the flat bone located at the center of the thoracic cage. This line is created by the junction of the manubrium, the uppermost part of the sternum, with the body of the sternum below it.
The sternal line serves as a reference point for various anatomical measurements and landmarks. It is a crucial guide for locating and observing other important structures within the chest region, such as the intercostal spaces between the ribs and the relative positioning of the ribs themselves. Healthcare professionals often use the sternal line as a starting reference when performing medical examinations or procedures involving the thoracic area, such as listening to heart and lung sounds, administering chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), or performing sternal punctures for certain diagnostic tests.
In addition to its practical significance in the medical field, the sternal line is also an important orientation landmark for anatomical studies and research. It helps in understanding the overall structure and organization of the sternum in relation to the rest of the chest wall and the underlying organs and structures.
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The midline of the sternum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for STERNAL LINE
- aternal line
- zternal line
- xternal line
- dternal line
- wternal line
- srernal line
- sfernal line
- sgernal line
- syernal line
- s6ernal line
- s5ernal line
- stwrnal line
- stsrnal line
- stdrnal line
- strrnal line
- st4rnal line
- st3rnal line
- steenal line
- stednal line
- stefnal line
Etymology of STERNAL LINE
The word "sternal line" is derived from the combination of two terms: "sternal" and "line".
1. "Sternal": The term "sternal" refers to or relates to the sternum. The sternum is a flat bone located at the center of the chest, serving as the attachment point for the ribs. The word "sternal" is derived from the Latin word "sternum", which means "breastbone".
2. "Line": The word "line" originates from the Old English term "līne", which means a length or a narrow mark. It can also refer to a continuous extent or a contour formed by points. The term itself has roots in the Latin word "linea", meaning "a line, string, or thread".
When combined, "sternal line" refers to a line or marking on the sternum or breastbone.
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