What Is the Xiphoid Process?
The xiphoid process is also known as the xiphisternum, ensiform process, ensiform cartilage, or the xiphoid cartilage. It comes from the Greek word xiphos, which means a straight sword or blade. It was named this because the cartilage edges look like a blade. It is a triangular small cartilaginous extension from the breastbone in the skeletal system near the ribcage.
An extension to the lower part of sternum, or breastbone, on the ribcage, the xiphoid process is made of cartilage. It is both the lowest division of the sternum and the smallest. When a person has reached about 30 years of age, the extension has usually fused to the sternum. This can happen at any time between 15 yrs old and 29 years old. With this fusion, it will harden.
This is a non-movable joint that is sometimes medically considered to be the 9th thoracic vertebrae level and the T7 dermatome. Dermatone is skin that is supplied by a single spinal nerve. It is used in the body to help anchor the diaphragm, the transverse thoracic, and the rectus abdominis.
Newborns and small babies may have a xiphoid processes that can be easily seen as it protrudes farther in a smaller body. This can appear as a lump underneath the sternal notch. This does not affect the newborn in any way, as it doesn't contribute to health problems. As the child grows and matures, it is usually less and less noticeable. Many parents take their baby to the doctor because of this protrusion only to see that in time it fades and there is nothing to worry about.
There can be variations to the form of the xiphoid process, depending on heredity. Some of these variations are bifurcation, where the main body has been split into two separate parts, and where the xiphoid process is perforated. There is no risk to the health from these differences.
When giving any type of cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, care should be taken to avoid pressure on the xiphoid process due to possible damage and even breakage. If it breaks, there is the possibility that it may be pushed into the heart muscle. This can also result in cuts and punctures into the diaphragm. Some breakages do not puncture the heart muscle or diaphragm and are treated with simple analgesics and time. A breakage or injury can take months to heal and may result in a bony lump.
Written by Tina Samuels
