The word "sternotracheal" refers to a specific anatomical location in the body. It is spelled with a combination of the root words "sterno" and "tracheal," which denote the breastbone and trachea respective. This word can be transcribed phonetically as /ˌstɜːrnəʊˈtreɪkiəl/, with the stress on the second syllable. The pronunciation of this word can be broken down into individual sounds, including the long "e" sound in "stern," the "tr" sound in "tracheal," and the schwa sound in the first syllable.
The term "sternotracheal" refers to a vital anatomical structure situated in the anterior portion of the neck. It specifically pertains to the region where the sternum (breastbone) and the trachea (windpipe) are connected or related.
The sternotracheal region is characterized by its strategic location in the upper part of the thorax, just below the suprasternal notch (or jugular notch). This anatomical area is crucial for respiration as the trachea, a rigid tube formed by cartilaginous rings, is responsible for carrying air to and from the lungs. The sternum, on the other hand, provides protection to the vital organs within the thoracic cavity, including the heart and the lungs.
The sternotracheal junction, where the trachea attaches to the sternum, is significant in clinical settings, particularly during surgical procedures or emergency situations. Surgeons and medical practitioners may refer to this term when addressing conditions related to the sternum or trachea, such as sternotracheal injuries, infections, or tumors.
Overall, "sternotracheal" is a term that encompasses the anatomy and physiology of the region where the trachea and sternum are structurally linked, holding importance in the context of breathing, medical interventions, and the integrity of the vital thoracic organs.
Relating to the sternum and the trachea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sternotracheal" is derived from two Greek roots: "sterno" and "trachea".
1. "Stern-" comes from the Greek word "sternon", which means chest or breastbone. It is also related to the Latin word "sternum", which refers to the breastbone.
2. "-Tracheal" is derived from the Greek word "tracheia", which means the windpipe. The word "trachea" itself comes from the Old French word "trachee" and ultimately from the Greek word "trakhia" meaning rough.
Therefore, the term "sternotracheal" combines the Greek roots to describe something related to the chest or breastbone and the windpipe.