What is the notch in your neck called? The definitive guide

September 22, 2025 •

4 min read

The prominent dip at the base of your neck, between your collarbones, is an important anatomical feature with a specific medical name. The answer to what is the notch in your neck called? lies in the anatomy of your sternum, the long, flat breastbone at the center of your chest.

Quick Summary

The indentation at the base of your neck, between your collarbones, is medically known as the suprasternal notch or jugular notch. It is a key anatomical landmark situated at the very top of your breastbone or sternum, specifically the manubrium.

Key Points

Name: The notch is medically known as the suprasternal notch, also called the jugular notch.
Location: It is a depression located at the top of the sternum (breastbone), situated between the clavicles (collarbones).
Function: It serves as a crucial anatomical landmark for medical professionals to locate underlying structures like the trachea and major blood vessels.
Differentiation: It is distinct from the Adam's apple, which is a cartilaginous protrusion higher on the throat that protects the voice box.
Clinical Importance: Its position helps in physical examinations and surgical procedures by providing a reference point for structures in the chest and neck.
Normal Variation: The prominence and depth of the notch can differ between individuals, but this is a normal anatomical variation.

The Suprasternal Notch: A Detailed Look

Understanding the Anatomy of the Notch

The notch located at the base of your neck is officially called the suprasternal notch, also commonly known as the jugular notch. The name comes from its location: "supra" meaning above, and "sternal" referring to the sternum. It is a shallow, U-shaped indentation found on the superior border of the manubrium, which is the broad, upper part of the sternum.

This depression is situated perfectly between the medial ends of the clavicles, or collarbones. While it may just seem like a minor dip in your skin, its placement makes it a crucial reference point for medical and anatomical purposes. The notch's prominence can vary from person to person, but it is easily palpable in most individuals.

Important Neighboring Structures

Just behind the suprasternal notch lie several vital structures that pass from the chest into the neck. Awareness of these is critical in clinical settings and for medical professionals during examinations or procedures. These structures include:

Trachea (Windpipe): The trachea sits directly behind the notch and is involved in breathing. Its position relative to the notch can be assessed during a physical exam to check for alignment.
Major Blood Vessels: The large arteries and veins that supply the head and arms, such as the jugular veins and carotid arteries, are situated nearby. The notch serves as a guidepost for navigating this complex vascular network.
Thyroid Gland: This gland is located just above the notch and wraps around the trachea. The notch helps in its palpation and examination.

The Importance as an Anatomical Landmark

As a landmark, the suprasternal notch has numerous clinical applications. During medical examinations, a healthcare provider might use it to:

Assess Tracheal Position: In cases of lung collapse or other thoracic issues, the trachea can shift. Palpating the notch helps determine if the trachea is correctly aligned.
Estimate Thoracic Cavity Dimensions: The notch provides a reference point for evaluating the size and position of organs within the chest cavity, including the heart and lungs.
Guide Procedures: For certain procedures, such as placing a central venous catheter, the notch is used as a landmark to help guide the insertion and avoid damage to underlying structures.

Suprasternal Notch vs. Adam's Apple: Clearing the Confusion

It is a common mistake to confuse the suprasternal notch with the Adam's apple, or laryngeal prominence. While both are in the neck, they are entirely different structures with distinct locations and functions. The Adam's apple is a cartilaginous protrusion higher up on the throat, whereas the suprasternal notch is an indentation at the base.


Feature	Suprasternal (Jugular) Notch	Adam's Apple (Laryngeal Prominence)
Location	Base of the neck, at the top of the sternum, between collarbones	Front of the throat, higher up, in the middle of the neck
Structure	A feature of the manubrium (top of the sternum)	Part of the thyroid cartilage (voice box)
Feel	A soft, U-shaped or curved indentation	A prominent, firm bump (especially in males)
Purpose	Key anatomical landmark for clinical assessments; ligament attachment point	Protects the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords
Prominence	Varies among individuals	More prominent in males due to hormonal changes; develops during puberty

Anatomical Differences in Detail

The most significant difference is the underlying material. The suprasternal notch is part of the bone structure of the skeleton, specifically the manubrium of the sternum. In contrast, the Adam's apple is composed of cartilage, a tough but flexible connective tissue. This cartilage protects the larynx, which is crucial for speech.

Furthermore, the Adam's apple is often more visibly prominent in males due to the effects of testosterone during puberty, while the suprasternal notch is a feature present in all individuals, regardless of gender.

Potential Issues and Variations

While the suprasternal notch is a standard part of human anatomy, some variations and conditions can affect this area:

Sternal Foramen: In some cases, a small hole or foramen can form in the sternum due to incomplete fusion during development. While often harmless, this can be mistaken for other issues on imaging tests.
Variations in Prominence: The depth and visibility of the notch can vary. A very deep notch might be more noticeable, while a shallower one is less so, but this is typically a normal anatomical variation.
Pain: Pain in the area, known as substernal pain, can be caused by a variety of issues, including musculoskeletal problems like costochondritis or even gastrointestinal problems like acid reflux. Pain is not typically associated with the notch itself but with the surrounding structures.

Conclusion

In summary, the indentation at the base of your neck is the suprasternal, or jugular, notch. It is a U-shaped indentation at the top of your sternum, located between your collarbones. This seemingly simple dip serves as a vital anatomical landmark, guiding medical professionals during examinations and procedures and protecting critical structures in the neck. Understanding the difference between this indentation and the Adam's apple is key to appreciating the intricacies of human anatomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the notch in your neck is not the same as the Adam's apple. The notch, or suprasternal notch, is a dip at the base of the neck, while the Adam's apple is a cartilaginous bump higher up on the throat.

The notch in your neck is located on the manubrium, which is the broad, upper part of your sternum, or breastbone.

You can feel the notch because it is a palpable depression at the superior border of the manubrium, covered only by skin and superficial fascia. It is a normal and easily identifiable part of your anatomy.

Doctors use the suprasternal notch as a key anatomical landmark during physical examinations. It helps them locate structures like the trachea and blood vessels and is used as a reference point during some medical procedures.

The notch itself is a normal anatomical feature and not a sign of a health problem. However, pain in the general area, known as substernal pain, can be a symptom of various issues, including muscle strain or acid reflux.

The jugular notch is simply another medical term for the suprasternal notch. They refer to the same U-shaped indentation at the base of the neck.

The lump often referred to as the Adam's apple is medically known as the laryngeal prominence. It is made of thyroid cartilage and protects the voice box.