The structure and position of the sternum
The sternum is a part of the thoracic skeleton, located in the upper part of the midline of the front chest, and is long, narrow, and flat. The sternum is composed of three parts: the upper sternum, the body sternum, and the xiphoid process. The upper sternum is connected to the clavicle, and the sternum and xiphoid process of the body are merged into one body. The sternum is the central axis of the human body and forms the thoracic structure with the spine.
Function of the sternum
The sternum is an important scaffold for the respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and digestive system, and is a key bone for the respiratory and circulatory systems. The thorax, which is composed of the sternum, ribs, and spine, can protect and support important organs such as the heart, lungs, spine, and esophagus. In addition, the sternum is also an important attachment point for respiratory muscles and tendons, and cooperates with the abdominal muscles to complete respiratory movements.
Sternal structure and respiratory movement
The structure of the sternum is closely related to respiratory movements. Human breathing is accomplished through the lifting and lowering movement of the thorax, which is closely connected to the structure of the sternum. The descent of the thorax expands the lungs, increases lung volume, and then exhales air; while the rise of the thorax causes inhalation during breathing, causing the lungs to expand and contract, and inhale air. The upper part of the sternum is connected to the clavicle and can cooperate with the shoulder girdle and upper limbs to complete powerful inhalation movements.
Sternum and cardiovascular system
The sternum also has close connections with the cardiovascular system. The heart is located in the midline behind the sternum. The thoracic cage formed by the sternum can protect the heart. At the same time, the sternum, supported by the ribs and pulled by the clavicle, plays a role in protecting the heart and large blood vessel transport channels. In addition, the lower sternal border to the seventh intercostal space is the conventional CPR location.
To sum up, the sternum is an important support for the respiratory and circulatory systems and an important attachment point for muscles and tendons. The sternum can also protect the heart, lungs, abdominal cavity and great blood vessels, and cooperate with the muscles to complete the contraction of respiratory muscles. Protecting the structure and function of the sternum is crucial to human health. People should pay attention to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and ensuring their own health.
