Sternum

The sternum (or breastbone) is a long flat bony plate located anteriorly to the heart in the center of the thorax. It connects to the rib bones via the costal cartilages, forming the anterior section of the rib cage with them, and thus helps to protect the lungs, heart and major blood vessels from physical trauma. Although it is fused, the sternum can be sub-divided into three regions: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process.