The Thoracic Cavity

12

True ribs (also known as vertebrocostal) are ribs which attach directly to the sternum through their own costal cartilage. Ribs 1-7 are true ribs and attach directly, both anteriorly and posteriorly

False ribs (also known as vertbrochondral) are ribs that have cartilages that join with rib just superior and thus connect with the sternum indirectly. Ribs 8-10 are falso ribs and attach to sternum via common cartilage

Floating ribs (also known as free) ribs have rudimentary cartilage that do not connect even indirectly with the sternum. Ribs 11-12 are floating ribs and have no anterior articulation (connection)

• 2
• facets
• 2
• 1st rib
• T1

Just anterior to its angler where it is weakest; middle ribs (5-9) are most commonly fractured because they aren't protected and are the longest

No; ribs 1-4 are rarely injured because they are fairly short and protected by the clavicle

• Sharpest curve
• Shortest
• Broadest (the broader the rib is, the more muscles can attach)

2 facets; one attaches to T1 and the other attaches to 1st rib

Articulate (attach) with corresponding vertebra and the one superior (above). Example: Rib 3 articulates with T3 and T2

Has one facet

• Short with one facet
• No neck or tubercles (because they do not attach at the anterior aspect)