Where in the Body Is the Sternal Notch?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 30, 2020

The sternal notch is located at the top of the sternum in the thoracic cavity. The sternum is a long bone that runs down the middle of the chest and connects to all of the rib bones.

The sternal notch is also known as the suprasternal notch, the fossa jugulars sternalis or the jugular notch. From the front of the human body, the sternal notch is visible as a large indentation between the two clavicle bones at the base of the neck. Clinically, the sternal notch is important due to its ability to protect the heart and lungs and its connections with the rib cage.