Sternum & SC Joints

What level is the suprasternal notch located?

• T2-T3

• T4-T5 disk space

• T9-T10

• L2-L3

Answer explanation

The suprasternal notch also called the manubrial notch or jugular notch is at level T2-T3

The sternal angle is at T4-T5 disk space on an average adult

Xiphoid Process is at T9-T10

Inferior Rib angle is at L2-L3

Know these locations!

What is the SID for a lateral sternum?

• 40"

• 72"

Answer explanation

Lateral sternum is done at 72" to compensate for the OID and to decrease magnification.

What are the 3 divisions of the sternum?

• Manubrium, Body, Xiphoid Process

• Sternal Angle, Manubrium, Xiphoid Process

• Jugular Notch, Manubrium, Body

• Jugular Noth, Sternal Angle, Suprasternal Notch

A patient with a large deep chest needs to be obliqued more than a thin chested patient?

• True

• False

Answer explanation

A patient with a LARGE deep chested thorax requires less rotation (15 degrees). A patient with a THIN chested thorax requires more rotation (20 degrees).

A floating rib has no costal groove?

• True

• False

Answer explanation

A floating rib has no costal cartilage.

Ribs 1 thru 7are true ribs because they connect to the sternum with their own costocartilage.

Ribs 8-12 are false ribs but only ribs 8-10 connect their costocartialge to the costocartilage of Rib 7.

Ribs 11-12 are floating ribs because the have NO costocartilage and do not connect anteriorly.

For the oblique projections, which SC joint is demonstrated?

• side up

• side down

Answer explanation

For SC joints and using the 15 degree oblique, the side DOWN is going to be demonstrated.

RAO=Right SC Joint

LAO= Left SC Joint

Whi is the RAO sternum performed?

• Less magnification of the sternum

• projects the sternum over the shadow of the heart

• reduces does to the thyroid gland

• projects the sternum away from the hilum and heart

Answer explanation

An RAO is preferred over an LAO because it projects the sternum over the shadow of the heart.

What is the recommended breathing instructions for the routine lateral sternum?

• suspended expiration

• suspended inspiration

• shallow breathing for breathing techniques

• just have the patient not breathe

What is the movement type of the sternoclavicular joint?

• plane/gliding

• hinge

• synarthrodial

• pivot

Answer explanation

Sternoclavicular joint is synovial, diarthrodial joint. It is a plane/gliding movment.

Are SC joints typically performed AP or PA?

• AP

• PA

Answer explanation

Typically done PA to place them closer to the IR.