Thoracic Cage Bones and Rib Types

Study Notes

Thoracic Cage Bones

Sternum: A flat bone located in the center of the chest, commonly referred to as the breastbone.
Manubrium: The uppermost segment of the sternum, articulating with the clavicles and the first pairs of ribs.
Body of Sternum: The elongated central portion of the sternum, connecting with the manubrium and xiphoid process.
Xiphoid Process: The small, cartilaginous extension at the lower end of the sternum; serves as an attachment point for abdominal muscles.

Types of Ribs

True Ribs: The first seven pairs of ribs that are directly attached to the sternum via costal cartilage.
False Ribs: The next three pairs of ribs (8th to 10th) that do not attach directly to the sternum, connecting indirectly through the cartilage of the rib above.
Floating Ribs: The last two pairs of ribs (11th and 12th) that do not have any anterior attachment to the sternum.

Supporting Structures

Costal Cartilage: Connective tissue that links the ribs to the sternum, allowing for flexibility and expansion during respiration.
Clavicle: Also known as the collarbone, it connects the arm to the body and rests on the sternum.
Scapula: Commonly referred to as the shoulder blade, it provides stability and facilitates arm movement.
Acromion: A bony process on the scapula; it forms the highest point of the shoulder and connects with the clavicle.
Coracoid Process: A small hook-like structure on the scapula that serves as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments.

Description

Explore the crucial components of the thoracic cage including the sternum, types of ribs, and supporting structures. This quiz will test your knowledge of the anatomy of the chest area. Understand the differences between true, false, and floating ribs along with their articulations.