The spelling of "incisura jugularis" can be somewhat difficult to decipher at first glance. The first word, "incisura," is spelled with the letters "i-n-c-i-s-u-r-a" and is pronounced /ɪnˈsɪzjʊrə/, with stress on the second syllable. The second word, "jugularis," is spelled with the letters "j-u-g-u-l-a-r-i-s" and is pronounced /ˈdʒʌɡjʊlərɪs/, with stress on the first syllable. Overall, the spelling of this term reflects its Latin origin and requires careful attention to each individual letter and their associated sounds.
The term "incisura jugularis" refers to a specific anatomical feature located in the upper part of the human sternum, or breastbone. It is also known as the jugular notch or the suprasternal notch. The incisura jugularis commonly appears as a U-shaped indentation or groove at the superior end of the sternum, and it is easily identifiable by touch.
This anatomical landmark plays a crucial role in various medical and surgical procedures. For instance, it can be used as a reference point during chest examinations, as healthcare practitioners can palpate or press on the notch to assess the patient's heart rate and the condition of adjacent structures. Additionally, the incisura jugularis can serve as a landmark for chest compressions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques, ensuring proper hand placement and depth of compressions.
Furthermore, the incisura jugularis holds significance in radiological imaging. When performing a chest x-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan, radiologists and clinicians use this notch as a reliable reference point for measurements and localization of various thoracic structures, such as the aorta and thymus gland.
In summary, the incisura jugularis is a distinct anatomical feature located at the upper end of the sternum, commonly referred to as the jugular notch. It aids in clinical examinations, surgical procedures, and radiological imaging, allowing for important measurements and reference points when assessing the thoracic region.
(1) A deep notch in front of the jugular process of the occipital bone, forming part of the foramen lacerum posterius; (2) the notch on the upper border of the stemum between the clavicular notches, presternal notch.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "incisura jugularis" is derived from Latin.
- The word "incisura" comes from the Latin prefix "in" meaning "into" or "inward" and "cisura" meaning "a cut" or "a notch". Hence, "incisura" can be understood as "a cut into" or "an inward notch".
- "Jugularis" is derived from the Latin word "jugulum" which stands for the neck or throat. In medical terminology, it specifically pertains to the jugular, referring to the jugular vein, a major blood vessel in the neck.
Therefore, "incisura jugularis" essentially signifies the "notch or indentation related to the jugular vein or neck". In anatomy, it commonly refers to a notch or indentation observed at the superior aspect of the sternum, where the jugular notch exists.