Definition – What is the xiphoid process?
The sword process – also called “Processus Xyphoideus” – is the lowest part of the sternum. The sternum can be divided into three parts. It resembles a sword in its entirety.
At the top, between the clavicles, lies the handle (Manubrium Sterni). The middle part, where the second to sixth ribs are attached via cartilage, is called the body (Corpus Sterni). The lowest part, where no ribs are attached and which tapers to a point, is the sword process.
Anatomy of the xiphoid process
The breastbone (sternum) belongs to the flat bones. Strictly speaking, the sternum is composed of three individual parts, which are still connected to each other in childhood by cartilage. These connections ossify over time.
Listed from top to bottom are the three parts of the sternum handle (Manubrium Sterni), the sternum body (Corpus Sterni) and the sword process (Processus Xyphoideus). The xiphoid process is located at the lowest end of the sternum and, like the entire sternum, lies directly under the skin. Its shape is usually pointed downwards, but it can also be split or perforated.
Together with the lowest costal arches and the 12th thoracic vertebra, the heavy process forms the lower boundary of the thorax. The inner side of this lower boundary of the thorax, i.e. among others the back of the sword process, is the attachment surface for the diaphragm. The straight abdominal muscle Musculus Rectus Abdominis also adheres to the sword process with some fibers.
On the outside, only skin with the corresponding fatty tissue lies over the xiphoid process. On the inside of this lower boundary of the breast body, the diaphragm is attached. It forms a dome inside the body and thus separates the torso into thoracic and abdominal cavity. You can find further information under: Breastbone
What is the function of the xiphoid process?
The sternum is the keystone in the thorax, so to speak. This is where the right and left ribs meet. Thus the sensitive organs, lungs and heart, are protectively surrounded by the bones.
At the sword process itself there are no more ribs. It forms the last small bone plate that protrudes towards the abdominal cavity. This could also be interesting for you: costal arch
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