Body of the sternum

The body or gladiolus of the sternum is the longest part of the sternum. It is flattened with an anterior and a posterior surface. The anterior surface is directed upward and forward. It affords attachment on either side to the sternal origin of the pectoralis major m. The posterior surface is slightly concave. From its lower part, on either side, the transversus thoracis m. takes origin. 

The superior border of the body is oval and articulates with the manubrium at the sternal angle. The inferior border is narrow and articulates with the xiphoid process.