MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Sternum - view of the outside (anterior)

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Sternum - view of the outside (anterior)

During a sternal tap, a thin needle is inserted into the sternum (shown here) to withdraw bone marrow.

Update Date: 5/2/2006

Updated by: Benjamin Taragin, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.