Sternebra VI
The sixth sternebra is one of the caudal sternebrae. The caudal sternebrae become progressively wider and flatter compared to the laterally compressed cranial sternebrae. It anchors the ribs and provides attachment for pectoral and sternal muscles.
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as an anatomical landmark.
## Overview Sternal fracture is a break of the breastbone from direct ventral trauma such as a fall or collision. It causes ventral chest pain, crepitus, reluctance to lie down, pain when girthed, an
## Overview Sternal osteomyelitis is bacterial infection of the sternebrae (breastbone segments). It causes a painful swelling on the ventral midline, often with a draining tract, and fever. It may f
Not a structure of practical concern for owners under normal circumstances.
## Overview Sternal fracture is a break of the breastbone from direct ventral trauma such as a fall or collision. It causes ventral chest pain, crepitus, reluctance to lie down, pain when girthed, and sometimes ventral edema. Multiple sternebrae may be involved. ## Causes Blunt trauma to the ventral chest. ## Diagnosis Palpation and radiographs or ultrasound of the sternum. ## Treatment Rest and pain management. Surgical repair is rarely performed. Most heal with time. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for uncomplicated fractures. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance. Signs include: ventral chest pain; crepitus on palpation; reluctance to lie down; pain when girthed; ventral edema
## Overview Sternal osteomyelitis is bacterial infection of the sternebrae (breastbone segments). It causes a painful swelling on the ventral midline, often with a draining tract, and fever. It may follow trauma, surgery, or hematogenous spread. ## Causes Bacterial infection, often after wound or trauma. ## Diagnosis Clinical signs, radiographs or computed tomography, and culture of drainage. ## Treatment Prolonged antibiotics and surgical debridement of infected bone. Prognosis is guarded. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Chronic infection is difficult to clear. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of ventral chest wounds. Signs include: draining tract on the ventral midline; fever; painful swelling
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as an anatomical landmark.
Not a structure of practical concern for owners under normal circumstances.
See the Sixth Sternebra on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model