The sternum is often described as being anterior (or ventral) to the heart. In anatomical terms, this means that the sternum is located at the front of the chest, directly in front of the heart. However, it can also be said that the sternum is superior to the heart, meaning it is positioned above the heart in the upright body position.
The relationship is crucial for understanding the layout of the thoracic cavity. The sternum provides protection to the heart and is a key landmark for various medical procedures. It is positioned in such a way that when you palpate the sternum, you can easily understand that the heart lies deeper within the thoracic cavity, shielded by the ribcage and by the sternum itself.