Anatomy, Thorax, Xiphoid Process

The xiphoid process is the most distal edge of the sternum or the breastbone. The sternum contains 3 major portions: the manubrium, the body, and the xiphoid process. Its name comes from the Greek word "xiphos," which means straight sword.[1] The xiphoid process articulates with the distal portion of the sternum and is termed the xiphisternal joint. Externally the xiphoid process can be located in the epigastric region of the anterior thoracic wall.[1] It is about 2 to 5 cm in length and is triangular. At birth, the xiphoid is pure cartilage. The xiphoid process is made up of 2 types of cartilage. It contains hyaline cartilage in the proximal portion and contains elastic cartilage in the distal portion.[2] As humans age, the xiphoid process ossifies, although there are variations in when this process begins.[1]