APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The inferior process of the sternum is the xiphoid process. It is joined with the body of the sternum by a symphysis that usually ossifies by 40 years of age. The xiphoid process also articulates with the costal cartilage of the seventh rib. The thoracic cage serves as an attachment site for a variety of structures.

Detailed explanation-2: -The xiphoid process (xiphisternum/xiphoid) is triangular shaped and forms the distal-most part of the sternum.

Detailed explanation-3: -The xiphoid process is made up of 2 types of cartilage. It contains hyaline cartilage in the proximal portion and contains elastic cartilage in the distal portion.

Detailed explanation-4: -The xiphoid process (/ˈzɪfɔɪd/), ensiform process, xiphisternum or metasternum, is a small cartilaginous process (extension) of the inferior (lower) part of the sternum, which is usually ossified in the adult human. Both the Greek-derived xiphoid and its Latin equivalent ensiform mean “swordlike” or “sword-shaped".