Processus xiphoideus
The xiphoid process is the caudal cartilaginous extension of the sternum. It is broad and flat in the horse, with the xiphoid cartilage extending caudally. It provides attachment for the diaphragm, linea alba, and rectus abdominis muscle. The xiphoid cartilage is the cartilaginous plate extending caudally from the xiphoid process. It provides the caudal-most attachment of the ventral body wall and diaphragm. The xiphoid cartilage may partially ossify in older horses.
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as an anatomical landmark for abdominal surgery and imaging. Partial ossification is a normal age-related change.
## Overview Fracture or displacement of the xiphoid process (the caudal tip of the sternum) results from trauma to the ventral chest or abdomen. It causes ventral abdominal pain, pain on palpation of
## Overview Xiphoid trauma is direct impact to the caudal sternum, causing pain, reluctance to flex the trunk, and ventral swelling. It may accompany fracture or soft-tissue bruising. Most cases are
## Overview A ventral hernia is a disruption of the abdominal wall, often near the xiphoid, from trauma. It appears as a soft, reducible swelling on the ventral midline that may enlarge with strainin
Not a structure of primary practical concern for owners under normal circumstances.
## Overview Fracture or displacement of the xiphoid process (the caudal tip of the sternum) results from trauma to the ventral chest or abdomen. It causes ventral abdominal pain, pain on palpation of the caudal sternum, and reluctance to round the back. ## Causes Direct trauma. ## Diagnosis Palpation and radiographs or ultrasound. ## Treatment Rest and pain management. Most heal without surgery. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance. Signs include: ventral abdominal pain; pain on palpation of the caudal sternum; reluctance to round the back
## Overview Xiphoid trauma is direct impact to the caudal sternum, causing pain, reluctance to flex the trunk, and ventral swelling. It may accompany fracture or soft-tissue bruising. Most cases are managed with rest. ## Causes Blunt trauma to the ventral abdomen or chest. ## Diagnosis Palpation and imaging if fracture is suspected. ## Treatment Rest and anti-inflammatories. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good. ## Prevention Safe environments. Signs include: pain at the caudal sternum; reluctance to flex the trunk; ventral swelling
## Overview A ventral hernia is a disruption of the abdominal wall, often near the xiphoid, from trauma. It appears as a soft, reducible swelling on the ventral midline that may enlarge with straining. Most are managed conservatively if the contents reduce easily and there is no bowel compromise. ## Causes Trauma. ## Diagnosis Palpation and ultrasound. ## Treatment Supportive bandaging and rest for small hernias. Surgical repair for large or non-reducible ones. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for uncomplicated hernias. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance. Signs include: soft reducible swelling on the ventral midline; may enlarge with straining
Isolated clinical problems are uncommon. Relevant mainly as an anatomical landmark for abdominal surgery and imaging. Partial ossification is a normal age-related change.
Not a structure of primary practical concern for owners under normal circumstances.
See the Xiphoid Process on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model