Suprasternal Notch

By Shoummojit Roy on July 28, 2012 in Skeletal System

What is Suprasternal Notch?

It is defined as a large, prominent dip on the apex of the sternum in the middle of articulation along with two clavicles. It is a significant division of the human anatomy. In adults, the notch is mainly present due to an aortic arch aneurysm. In a child, it is present as a result of coarctation of the aorta.

Suprasternal Notch Synonyms

The structure is also referred to as:

Fossa jugularis sternalis
Jugular notch

Suprasternal Notch Location

It is located at the top edge of the manubrium right in the middle of the clavicular notches.

Suprasternal Notch Function

The Intrathoracic pressure is analyzed with the help of a transducer. In this process, the actuator employs the soft tissues which are situated right above the Jugular notch. A proper evaluative test for the aorta is conducted by utilizing this large dip. Such clinical tests can help determine a number of medical conditions such as:

Dissecting aneurysm
Hypertension
Aneurysm
Atherosclerosis

To proceed with such tests, it is compulsory to put an index finger or a middle finger right in the middle of the notch and tactually explore it. In average normal person, the palpable pulse is not present. If someone exerts more pressure in the Suprasternal Notch area, a palpable pulse can be felt, especially in older patients. Presence of a prominent pulse signifies the presence of uncoiled aorta.

Jugular Notch is used as a vulnerable spot for different finger strikes in martial arts such as Jiu-Jitsu. In this form of self-defense, an opponent may push their fingers right into this vulnerable spot in an attack known as “Two-finger strike.” This technique jams the windpipe and induces unconsciousness or even choking in a few cases.

People having problems in this notch are recommended to wear open neck garments at all times to make the region comfortable.

Suprasternal Notch Clinical Relevance

Palpation

The suprasternal notch gets palpated right in the mid-point of vital medial end points of the clavicles.

Epilepsy Treatment

If a patient suffers from epilepsy, drug diffusion takes place via the suprasternal notch or jugular notch. After anaesthesia, a 2 to 3 cm vertical incision is made in the inferior portion of the chin through the suprasternal notch. Once the sternothyroid muscle and the common carotid artery are exposed along with the posteriorly positioned vagal nerve separation, the drug is administered through catheterization, primarily in the form of a solution.