Anatomy of Sternum, Ribcage, and Vertebra

Sternum and Ribs

• The sternum, also known as the breastbone, provides protection for the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.
• The manubrium, the upper part of the sternum, is roughly square in shape.

Ribs

• Humans have 12 pairs of ribs, which are divided into two categories: vertebral sternal ribs and vertebral chondral ribs.
• The first seven pairs of ribs are referred to as vertebral sternal ribs because they connect to the sternum and vertebrae.
• The head of each rib connects to the vertebra at the costovertebral joint.
• Vertebral sternal ribs are different from vertebral chondral ribs in that they attach directly to the sternum via costal cartilages.
• The function of vertebral sternal ribs is to provide protection and support for the thoracic cavity.

Vertebral Chondral Ribs

• The xiphoid process, the lower part of the sternum, is located beneath the manubrium.
• Each rib connects to the vertebra via the articular facet on the tubercle.
• The function of vertebral chondral ribs is to provide protection and support for the thoracic cavity, but they do not attach directly to the sternum.