Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Of or relating to the sternum: Describes anything pertaining to or located near the sternum (the breastbone).

Usage

The adjective "sternal" is used in medical, anatomical, and biological contexts to specify a connection to the breastbone. It is typically placed before a noun.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The surgeon made a sternal incision to access the heart.
  • Sternal fractures can be very painful and require careful management.
  • The bird's keel is a prominent sternal structure for muscle attachment.

Advanced Usage

• "sternal angle": The angle formed by the junction of the manubrium and the body of the sternum, an important anatomical landmark.
  • The sternal angle is level with the second rib.
• "sternal notch": The notch at the top of the sternum, between the clavicles.
  • The doctor palpated the sternal notch during the examination.

Variants and Related Words

• Sternum (n): The long flat bone in the center of the chest (breastbone) to which the ribs are attached.
  • The ribs connect to the sternum via costal cartilage.
• Retrosternal (adj): Situated or occurring behind the sternum.
  • The patient complained of retrosternal pain.

Synonyms

• Sternocostal: Relating to both the sternum and the ribs.
• Thoracic: Relating to the thorax or chest (a broader term that includes the sternal region).

Antonyms

• Dorsal: Relating to the back.
• Vertebral: Relating to the spine or vertebrae.

Adjective

1. of or relating to or near the sternum