Parasternale

Parasternale refers to a location or structure situated alongside the sternum, the breastbone. In anatomical and medical contexts, it often describes a region of the chest wall or structures that lie adjacent to the sternum. For instance, parasternale lymph nodes are a group of lymph nodes located in the mediastinum near the sternum. These nodes play a role in the lymphatic drainage of the chest and can be important in the staging and treatment of certain cancers, particularly lung and breast cancers.

The term can also be used to describe anatomical landmarks or surgical approaches. A parasternale incision, for example, is a surgical cut made vertically along the sternum, allowing access to the thoracic cavity. This type of incision is commonly used in cardiac surgery. Understanding the parasternale region is crucial for accurate diagnosis, surgical planning, and the interpretation of imaging studies such as CT scans and MRIs. Its proximity to vital organs like the heart and lungs makes it a significant area of focus in thoracic medicine.