Sternum Lateral View Royalty-Free Stock Photo

The sternum or breastbone is a long flat bone shaped like a necktie located in the center of the chest. It connects to the ribs via cartilage, forming the front of the rib cage, and thus helps to protect the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from injury. The sternum consists of three regions: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process.