SUPRASTERNAL SPACE Meaning and
Definition
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The suprasternal space refers to a specific anatomical area located above the sternal notch. It is a small, triangular or U-shaped hollow that sits just above the sternum, between the two clavicles, in the midline of the neck. Also known as the suprasternal notch or fossa, the space is easily palpable and visually identifiable, making it an important landmark in clinical and anatomical examinations.
The suprasternal space is formed by the upper margins of the manubrium and body of the sternum, where they meet at an angle known as the sternal angle. It serves as the attachment point for various structures such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck region. Important structures located just beneath the suprasternal space include the trachea, major blood vessels (such as the aorta and the brachiocephalic veins), and the upper part of the thymus gland.
In medical practice, the suprasternal space can be clinically useful for the assessment and measurement of certain conditions, including airway obstruction, thyroid enlargement, lymph node enlargement, and abnormal masses or tumors. It serves as a point of reference for clinicians to evaluate structures in the neck and monitor any changes or abnormalities.
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A narrow interval between the deep and superficial layers of the cervical fascia above the manubrium sterni, Burns's space.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SUPRASTERNAL SPACE
- suprasternal spase
- suprasternal spake
- suprasternal spage
- suprasternal spaae
- suprasternal spabe
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- suprasternal spacm
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- s uprasternal space
- supr asternal space
- supra sternal space
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- suprasternal spac e
Etymology of SUPRASTERNAL SPACE
The word "suprasternal space" is a medical term used to describe the area located above the sternum (breastbone). It can also be referred to as the "suprasternal notch" or "suprasternal fossa".
The etymology of the word "suprasternal" can be broken down as follows:
- "Supra-" is a Latin prefix meaning "above" or "over".
- "Sternal" refers to the sternum, which is the triangular-shaped bone located in the center of the chest.
Therefore, "suprasternal" essentially means "above the sternum". The term "space" or "notch" is added to indicate the specific anatomical area being referenced.
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