Ribs And Rib Cage: Anatomy, Function, Types, Information, Parts, Faqs

Definition Of Ribs

This is biological engineering at its best: the human rib cage helps protect and support some of the most vital organs of the human body. It has a bony framework, comprising ribs and sternum bones. Accompanied by the сопроврц cage, it provides a sturdy yet agile space for heart and lung protection through every breath, pulsation, and movement. The anatomic structure forms part of the integral mechanism of respiration. Ribs are not just rigid protective coverings but are dynamic to respiration and movement. An understanding of anatomy, types, functions, and development of the rib cage is very important to appreciate how this human body stands in various situations yet maintains itself substantially.

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This Story also Contains

1. Definition Of Ribs
2. Rib Anatomy: Structure
3. Classification Of Ribs
4. Rib Cage – Human Body
5. Functions Of The Ribs
6. Development Of The Ribs
7. Ribs In Other Animals
8. Clinical Importance
9. Recommended video on Ribs And Rib Cage

Rib Anatomy: Structure

Ribs are flat, narrow, and curved strips of bones which are found in all vertebrates. In humans, there are typically twelve pairs of ribs, each comprising several parts.

Parts Of A Typical Rib

• Costal groove

• Tubercle

• NeckShaft

• Head with two articular facets

Exceptions In Structure Of Ribs

• The first rib possesses two costal grooves, and one articular facet, and is wide and short.

• The second rib is long and thin.

• The tenth has only one particular facet.

• The eleventh and twelfth ribs don't have a neck and their articular facet is single.

• Ribs articulate posteriorly with the thoracic vertebrae and anteriorly with the sternum through costal cartilage and form sternocostal joints.

Classification Of Ribs

Ribs can be classified according to their connection towards the sternum.

True Ribs

• First to seventh ribs

• Articulates directly with the sternum using costal cartilage only

False Ribs

• Eighth to tenth ribs

• Indirect articulation with the sternum via the cartilage of the seventh rib

Floating Ribs

• Eleventh and twelfth ribs

• Does not articulate with the sternum

Rib Cage – Human Body

The rib cage is a basketlike skeleton structure made from the ribs, the sternum, and the vertebral column. It offers bony protection to the lungs as well as the heart, but at the same time, has the power of expansion and contraction, which enables respiration.

Functions Of The Ribs

Some functions of the ribs are:

Protection

Protects the heart and lungs from physical injuries

Respiration

Expansion and contraction aid in breathing

Support

Maintains the structure and shape of the thorax

Development Of The Ribs

Ribs develop from the sclerotome, a portion of paired paraxial mesoderm called somites, which forms vertebrae.

Ribs In Other Animals

• Jawed Fish: Has dorsal and ventral ribs

• Reptiles: First forms showing rib attachment to the breastbone

• Snakes: Ribs attach to all vertebrae

• Mammals: Ribs attach only to thoracic vertebrae

• Turtles: Eight pairs of ribs

• Amphibians (Frogs): No ribs

Clinical Importance

The clinical importance is explained below-

Fractured Ribs

• Caused by accidents, falls, or trauma

• Symptoms include pain and difficulty breathing

Dislocated Ribs

• Results from lifting heavy objects

• Causes severe pain

Costochondritis

• Inflammation of costal cartilage

• Can mimic heart attack pain

Rib Tumors

• Primary or secondary lesions

• Medical evaluation warranted

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