Corpus sterni is a medical term that refers to the breastbone or sternum. The correct spelling is "corpus sterni", with the stress on the first syllable of both words. The phonetic transcription for "corpus" is /ˈkɔːrpəs/, and for "sterni" is /ˈstɜːrnaɪ/. The "o" in "corpus" is pronounced with an open "aw" sound, while "sterni" is pronounced with a long "i" and a silent "e" at the end. Nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals must know how to spell and pronounce medical terms correctly to ensure effective communication with their colleagues and patients.
Corpus sterni, also known as the sternum, is a noun that refers to the flat bone located in the central part of the chest. It is an essential component of the human skeletal system and is commonly referred to as the breastbone.
The corpus sterni consists of three main parts: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process. The manubrium is the top portion of the sternum, which is attached to the clavicles (collarbones), whereas the body is the elongated middle section. The xiphoid process, at the bottom, is a small cartilaginous extension that ossifies with age. Together, they form a critical structural unit that connects the ribs, protecting and supporting the thoracic cavity.
The primary function of the corpus sterni is to provide attachments for various muscles and ligaments. It serves as a connection point for the clavicles and the upper ribs, allowing for the movement and flexibility of the chest during breathing. Additionally, it forms protective coverage for vital organs, such as the heart, lungs, and a portion of the abdominal organs.
In medical and anatomical terminology, knowledge of the corpus sterni is essential for professionals to accurately diagnose and treat conditions related to the chest and surrounding areas. It plays a crucial role in surgical procedures and radiological evaluations, as abnormalities in the sternum can affect the overall health and functionality of the thoracoabdominal region.
Body of the sternum, mesosternum, gladiolus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word corpus sterni is Latin in origin.
- Corpus simply means body in Latin.
- Sterni is the genitive form of the noun sternum, which refers to the breastbone or chest bone in human anatomy.
Therefore, corpus sterni could be translated as body of the sternum or the body of the breastbone.