XIPHISTERNUM Meaning and
Definition
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The xiphisternum is a term used in anatomy to refer to a specific bony structure found in the human body. It is the most inferior and smallest part of the sternum, also known as the breastbone. The sternum itself is a flat bone located at the anterior midline of the thoracic region, commonly known as the chest.
The xiphisternum is a triangular cartilaginous extension found at the lower end of the sternum, where it connects with the body's other components, such as the ribs and the diaphragm. It is situated just above the epigastric region, which is the upper part of the abdomen.
Often, the xiphisternum can be easily palpated or felt just above the navel area in a human body, especially in individuals with little body fat. Its presence and location are important in medical examinations, as it assists in determining organ positions and identifying anatomical landmarks. Moreover, it serves as an attachment point for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons related to the abdomen and lower thoracic region.
In summary, the xiphisternum is a small and triangular cartilaginous extension at the lower end of the sternum, connecting the thoracic region to the abdomen. It plays an essential role in providing structural support, serving as an attachment point for several anatomical components, and assisting in determining bodily positions during medical examinations.
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Xiphoid or ensiform process, metasternum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for XIPHISTERNUM
- ziphisternum
- ciphisternum
- diphisternum
- siphisternum
- xuphisternum
- xjphisternum
- xkphisternum
- xophisternum
- x9phisternum
- x8phisternum
- xiohisternum
- xilhisternum
- xi-histernum
- xi0histernum
- xipgisternum
- xipbisternum
- xipnisternum
- xipjisternum
- xipuisternum
- xipyisternum
Etymology of XIPHISTERNUM
The word "xiphisternum" is derived from two Greek words: "xiphos" meaning "sword" and "sternon" meaning "chest" or "breastbone". In Greek, "xiphos" represents a short, double-edged sword typically used by ancient Greek infantry soldiers. The term "xiphisternum" was coined due to the shape of the structure resembling the tip of a sword, referring to the lowest part of the sternum or breastbone.
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