Thorax and Chest Wall Biomechanics Quiz

Ventilation Mechanics

• The primary function of the thorax and chest wall in ventilation is to facilitate breathing by expanding and deflating the thoracic cavity.

Inspiration and Expiration

• The diaphragm is primarily responsible for inspiration during quiet breathing.
• The intercostal muscles play a supporting role in ventilation, particularly during forced breathing.
• During forced expiration, the internal intercostal muscles are primarily responsible for decreasing the thoracic volume.
• During quiet breathing, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, increasing the thoracic volume and facilitating inspiration.

Thoracic Cage Function

• The thoracic cage, or ribcage, functions to protect and support the organs in the thoracic cavity during ventilation, and its movement facilitates breathing by expanding and deflating the thoracic cavity.