Panimalar Medical College, Hospital & Research Institute, Varadharajapuram, Poonamallee, India.
Abstract: (159 Views)
Introduction: Sternal foramen is a congenital defect found in the body of the sternum which results from incomplete fusion of its ossification centres.
Aim of the study: The aim of the present study was to report the occurrence and prevalence of sternal foramen.
Materials and methods: The present study was designed as a descriptive study. A total of 100 sternum were collected from department of anatomy, Panimalar medical college, hospital and research institute from April 2021 to April 2022. The occurrence of sternal foramen was observed by two investigators based on the criteria that a fully complete foramen is present. The broken bones or incomplete foramen were excluded from the study. The foramen was measured using vernier calliper.
Results: Out of 100 sternums only one sternum showed sternal foramen (10%). The foramen was oval in shape. It measures about length(L1)-8.86mm and width(W1)-9.45mm. It is found in the lower 1/3rd of the body of sternum. Its distance from sternal angle(D1) was 68.51mm and from lower end of sternum(D2) was 13.13mm.
Conclusion: Sternal foramen is subclinical, but its close vicinity to the thoracic organs like the heart and lungs may have a risk of serious complications from blinded sternal interventions. Moreover, its presence can lead to misinterpretation of radiological findings. Hence the anatomical variation of Sternal foramen should not be ignored by physicians and non-physician healthcare providers in order to optimize clinical complications.
Type of Study:
Original |
Subject:
Morphometry Received: 2023/04/4 | Accepted: 2024/08/17 | Published: 2023/08/30