The anterior sternoclavicular ligament is described as which of the following?

• A. Dorsal ulnocarpal ligament
• B. Round surface for ligament between coracoid process and collarbone
• C. Pressed in part on a bone for the ligament between ribs and collarbone
• D. Ligament between breastbone and collar bone, more to the front

Answer: (D)

The forward-facing reinforcement of the sternoclavicular joint is provided by the anterior sternoclavicular ligament. This broad band runs from the sternum (breastbone) to the clavicle (collarbone) on the front aspect of the joint, strengthening the capsule and limiting excessive anterior movement of the clavicle relative to the sternum. That front position is why this ligament is described as the anterior sternoclavicular ligament.

The other options describe different structures: a wrist ligament (not part of the sternoclavicular joint), a description that would fit the coracoclavicular area (connecting the coracoid process to the clavicle) but not the anterior aspect of the sternoclavicular joint, and the costoclavicular ligament between the first rib and clavicle (located below the joint).