Pectoral Bony Structures Anatomy

Pectoral Bony Structures

The pectoral region is one of the most significant areas in the body, particularly associated with respiration and upper limb movement. This area contains essential bony structures like the clavicle, suprasternal notch, sternal angle, infraclavicular fossa, and coracoid process that contribute to the overall functioning of the body. This article will discuss these structures in detail.

Clavicle

The clavicle, also known as the collarbone, is one of the two anterior bones of the human skeleton. It connects the sternum to the scapula, providing support for the upper limbs. The clavicle consists of two parts: the manubrium, which articulates with the sternum, and the acromion, which articulates with the scapula. The clavicle is formed by the fusion of two bones during embryonic development.

The clavicle is an important bone in the upper body, as it plays a crucial role in various activities such as lifting objects and supporting the upper limbs. It also protects the brachial plexus and the subclavian artery.

Suprasternal Notch

The suprasternal notch is a depression located at the junction of the clavicle and the manubrium of the sternum. It is an important landmark for the palpation of the carotid pulse and for the diagnosis of thyroid enlargement.

The suprasternal notch is formed by the junction of the manubrium and the body of the sternum and provides attachment sites for the infrahyoideus muscles. This area is significant because it allows the passage of major blood vessels like the common carotid artery and the internal jugular vein.

Sternal Angle

The stereognathic angle, also referred to as the sternal angle or angulus sterni, is the point where the body and the manubrium meet on the anterior surface of the sternum. It plays a vital role in respiration by allowing the expansion of the chest wall during inspiration.

The sternal angle varies between individuals and can provide useful information about an individual's height, sex, and age. It also serves as a landmark for the detection of certain medical conditions such as osteomyelitis or neoplastic lesions.

Infraclavicular Fossa

The infraclavicular fossa lies beneath the clavicle, where the brachial plexus passes through. This region is important for the innervation of the upper limbs, as it contains the brachial plexus, which serves as the main source of motor and sensory innervation to the upper extremities. The brachial plexus is formed from spinal nerves C5 through T1 and contains both motor and sensory fibers.

Coracoid Process

The coracoid process is a small projection on the front surface of the scapula that articulates with the clavicle. It forms part of the acromioclavicular joint and helps stabilize the glenohumeral joint. The coracoid process is important for shoulder movement and acts as an attachment site for various muscles like the short head of the biceps brachii, the coracobrachialis, and the coracoacromial ligament.

Understanding these pectoral bony structures is crucial because they play essential roles in respiration, muscular activity, and overall body stability. These structures contribute significantly to the proper functioning of the human body, highlighting the importance of maintaining their integrity and health.