Skeleton of the Chest, Anterior View

Description

Anterior orientation centers the sternum in the midline, with the manubrium superior to the sternal body and the xiphoid process tapering inferiorly toward the epigastrium. Curving laterally from the costal cartilages, the ribs form the thoracic cage, while the clavicles run horizontally at the superior margin of the chest to meet the acromial region. Overlying this framework, the pectoralis major spans from the medial clavicle and sternum to its humeral insertion, with deltoid fibers appearing superolaterally and the external oblique contributing inferolateral abdominal wall texture. Surface anatomy matters here because the pectoralis major and clavicle define common surgical and procedural corridors, from subclavian and axillary vascular access to pacemaker pocket creation and anterior thoracotomy landmarks. Rib and sternal relationships also guide interpretation of chest pain patterns and trauma patterns, including sternal fractures and anterior rib fractures that can complicate cardiopulmonary resuscitation or blunt thoracic injury. Clean midline reference points. Few views teach them faster. Use this illustration in gross anatomy and musculoskeletal courses to reinforce bony landmarks under the anterior chest wall, in clinical skills training for locating the sternal angle and intercostal spaces, or in surgical and anesthesia texts discussing infraclavicular approaches and anterior chest incisions. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.