Chest
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Introduction
Anatomy
The manubriosternal junction (Angle of Louis) the visible and palpable angulation of the sternum and the point at which the second rib articulates with the sternum.
The suprasternal notch: A depression, easily palpable and most often visible at the base of the front aspect of the neck, just superior to the manubriosternal junction.
Costal angle: The angle formed at the union of the costal margins and the sternum. It is usually no more than 90 degrees with ribs inserted at approximately 45 degrees.
Vertebra prominens: The spinous process of C7. It can be more readily seen and felt with the patient’s head bent forward. If two prominences are felt, the upper is that of the spinous process of C7, and the lower is that of T1. Thoracic landmarks are imaginary lines on the surface that will help localize the findings in a physical examination.
Midsternal line: Vertically down the middle of the sternum
Right and left midclavicular lines: Parallel to the midsternal line, beginning at midclavicle; the inferior borders of the lungs generally cross the sixth rib at the midclavicular line
Right and left anterior axillary lines: Vertical line, beginning at the anterior axillary folds
Right and left midaxillary lines: Vertical lines, beginning at the midaxilla
Right and left posterior axillary lines: Vertical lines, beginning at the posterior axillary folds
Vertebral line: Vertically down the spinal processes
Right and left scapular lines: Parallel to the vertebral line, through the inferior angle of the scapula when the patient is standing
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