The primary difference between the male and female sternum lies in their proportions, particularly the relationship between the manubrium and the body.
Key Differences in Sternum Structure
Here's a breakdown of the differences based on the provided references:
| Feature | Male Sternum | Female Sternum |
|---|---|---|
| Manubrium Length | Typically, less than half the length of the body. | Often exceeds half the length of the body. |
| Body Length | Usually, at least twice as long as the manubrium. | Typically shorter compared to male sternums. |
| Body Width | Generally longer and narrower than female sternums. | Generally shorter and wider compared to male sternums. |
Manubrium-Body Ratio
- Males: The sternal body is considerably longer than the manubrium. This means the main part of the sternum is longer in males relative to the top portion.
- Females: The manubrium is proportionally larger, sometimes exceeding half the length of the body of the sternum. This makes the top portion appear more prominent in females compared to the main part of the sternum.
Additional Observations
- Overall Shape: According to [22], the male sternum is characterized by being longer and narrower overall. In contrast, the female sternum is shorter and wider.
These differences in sternal dimensions are essential for understanding skeletal variations and are often considered in forensic anthropology and anatomical studies.
