ENSIFORM CARTILAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Ensiform cartilage is a slender, elongated piece of cartilaginous structure located in the lower part of the sternum, specifically in between the xiphoid process and the body of the sternum. It is also known as the xiphoid process, xiphoid appendix, or the xiphisternal joint. The ensiform cartilage is made up of hyaline cartilage, which is a smooth and flexible connective tissue.
This cartilaginous structure can vary in length and shape among individuals, but typically it measures around 2-3 inches long and has a triangular shape. It is thin at the top and gradually widens towards the bottom, resembling the shape of a sword (hence the name "ensiform," derived from the Latin word for sword, ensis).
The ensiform cartilage serves as an attachment point for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the abdominal region. It connects to the diaphragm, the rectus abdominis muscle, and the transversus thoracis muscle. These attachments provide stability and support for the abdominal wall and aid in the movements involved in respiration and trunk flexion.
Although the ensiform cartilage does not have a vital function, it may occasionally cause discomfort or pain when injured due to trauma or excessive pressure. In some cases, it can also shift or become misaligned, leading to a condition called xiphisternal instability. Overall, the ensiform cartilage is an important structural component of the sternum, contributing to the overall stability and functionality of the thoracic cavity and the abdominal area.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ENSIFORM CARTILAGE
- ensifourmcartilage
- ensiforemcartilage
- ensifoarmcartilage
- e nsiform cartilage
- en siform cartilage
- ens iform cartilage
- ensi form cartilage
- ensif orm cartilage
- ensifo rm cartilage
- ensifor m cartilage
- ensiform c artilage
- ensiform ca rtilage
- ensiform car tilage
- ensiform cart ilage
- ensiform carti lage
- ensiform cartil age
- ensiform cartila ge
- ensiform cartilag e
Etymology of ENSIFORM CARTILAGE
The word "ensiform" is derived from the Latin word "ensis", which means "sword". "Cartilage" is from the Latin "cartilago", meaning "gristle". "Ensiform cartilage" is a term used to describe a specific structure in the human body, located in the lower part of the sternum (breastbone), which resembles the shape of a sword due to its elongated and pointed structure.
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