sternal angle (of Louis)

Introduction

Anatomic landmark representing the angle between the body of the sternum & the manubrium. It marks the level of the 2nd costal cartilage (rib) for counting ribs or intercostal spaces. It denotes the level of the aortic arch, the bifurcation of the trachea & the T4/T5 intervertebral disc.

This angle serves as a reference point for measuring jugular venous pressure. The right atrium lies about 5 cm below the sternal angle.

More general terms

• anatomic structure

Additional terms

• jugular venous pressure
• manubrium of sternum
• sternum