Xiphoid Process – Meaning and Usage in Medical English

👁 What Does “Xiphoid Process” Mean?

The term xiphoid process refers to the small projection at the lower end of the sternum (breastbone).

The word comes from the Greek xiphos, meaning sword, because of its thin, pointed shape. “Process” is a common anatomical term for a bony projection or outgrowth.

In medicine, xiphoid process is used primarily in anatomy teaching, physical examinations, radiology reports, and documentation during procedures involving the chest or upper abdomen.

Although small, its position makes it an important surface landmark — for example, when locating the lower border of the sternum or placing hands correctly for CPR.

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🔍 Clinical Usage

In daily practice, xiphoid process appears in:

• patient charts and physical exam notes
• musculoskeletal or trauma assessments
• radiology reports (X-ray, CT, ultrasound)
• procedural guidance and CPR training materials

Healthcare professionals use the term to describe anatomical landmarks, pinpoint the location of pain or tenderness, and avoid harm during procedures.

Because this structure is quite superficial, patients may sometimes notice discomfort there after trauma, excessive coughing, heavy lifting, or even acid reflux irritation from nearby structures — a condition sometimes called xiphoidalgia.

Clinicians may document tenderness directly using the term, or explain the location in simpler language when speaking with patients:

• “The pain seems to be coming from the xiphoid process.”
• “Pressing on the lower tip of your breastbone reproduces the pain.”

There are no commonly used abbreviations for xiphoid process in standard clinical notes; the full term is usually written out for clarity. Related phrases you might encounter include:

• xiphoid tenderness
• xiphoid pain or xiphoidalgia
• xiphoid region

📋 Example (clinical note style):

“Tenderness noted over the xiphoid process with no visible swelling.”
→ The patient feels pain when the xiphoid area is pressed, but there is no obvious inflammation.

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🎥 Watch the Short Video

👉 Watch our 20-second clip:

Xiphoid Process – Learn how to pronounce it and remember how it’s used in real medical English.

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