title: MDCT evaluation of sternal variations: Pictorial essay.
abstract: Sternal variations and anomalies have been identified in the past during autopsy or cadaveric studies. Recently, an increasing number of minor sternal variations have been reported with the advent of multidetector computed tomography (CT). Although there are many sternal variations that occur with varying appearance and prevalence, most of them are not recognized or are underreported during routine imaging of thorax. Identification of sternal variations is important to differentiate from pathological conditions and to prevent fatal complications prior to sternal interventions like marrow aspiration or acupuncture. This article aims to describe the minor and asymptomatic sternal variations by multidetector CT and their clinical significance.
authors.affiliation: VRR Scan -Department of Radiology (A Unit of VRR Diagnostics Services Pvt Ltd), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
authors.forename: Chary
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Duraikannu
authors.affiliation: VRR Scan -Department of Radiology (A Unit of VRR Diagnostics Services Pvt Ltd), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
authors.forename: Olma V
authors.initials: OV
authors.lastname: Noronha
authors.affiliation: VRR Scan -Department of Radiology (A Unit of VRR Diagnostics Services Pvt Ltd), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
authors.forename: Pushparajan
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Sundarrajan
keywords: Indian population; multidetector computed tomography; sternal cleft; sternal foramen; sternal variations; suprasternal ossicle; xiphoid foramen