Sternalis is muscle: An anatomic variation and its clinical implications
Ulku Akyurek1, Diana Caragacianu2, Mustafa Akyurek3
1Department of Biology, Worcester State University, Worcester, Worcester, MA 01605, United States.
Abstract:
This report presents a case description of sternalis muscle which is an accessory muscle of anterior thoracic wall. A 56-year-old woman underwent mastectomy for breast cancer along with free flap reconstruction, revealing the presence of aberrant sternalis muscle. It was divided transversely during partial rib resection to expose internal mammary vessels. The case proceeded with successful flap transfer. Clinical implications of this anatomic variation is discussed. The authors conclude that plastic surgeons should be aware of this muscular anomaly.
Related Concept Videos
The Thoracic Cage: Sternum
The sternum is the elongated bony structure on the anterior side of the thoracic cage. It consists of three parts: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid...
Muscles of the Shoulder
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
Muscles of the Thorax
The diaphragm is at the core of thoracic musculature, the primary muscle involved in breathing. This expansive, dome-shaped muscle marks the division between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. It...
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Naming Skeletal Muscles
The key factors used in naming muscles include:
Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment


