Bony Thorax, Sternum, and Ribs

The jugular notch corresponds to the level of

T2-3

The xiphoid process corresponds to the vertebral level of:

T9-10

What is the joint space between the manubrium and body of sternum called?

Sternal angle

At approximately what age does the xiphoid process become totally ossified?

40 years old

The sternal angle is a palpable landmark at the level of:

T4-5

Which costocartilage attaches to the sternum at the level of the sternal angle?

Second

In the erect adult bony thorax, the posterior or vertebral end of a typical rib is ____ higher than or more superior to the anterior portion.

3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm)

The widest aspect of the bony thorax generally occurs at the level of:

The eighth or ninth ribs

What is the joint classification and type of movement for the sternoclavicular joints?

Synovial with diarthrodial (plane) movement

What is the joint classification and type of movement for the costotransverse joint?

Synovial with diarthrodial (plane) movement

Which aspect of the rib articulates with the thoracic vertebral body?

Head

Which ribs are considered to be true ribs?

First through seventh ribs

Why is the RAO sternum preferred to the LAO position?

The RAO projects the sternum over the shadow of the heart

What is the recommended degree of obliquity for an RAO projection of the sternum for an asthenic (thin-chested) type of patient?

20 degrees

Which position can replace the RAO of the sternum if the patient cannot lie prone?

LPO

What is the recommended SID for the erect lateral sternum position?

60 to 72 inches (150 to 180 cm)

Where is the CR centered for a PA projection of the sternoclavicular joints?

3 inches (7 cm) distal to the vertebra prominens (T2-3)

How much rotation and which oblique position are required to best demonstrate the left sternoclavicular joints?

10 to 15 degrees LAO

Which two projections must be taken for an injury to the right anterior, upper ribs?

PA and LAO

Which two projections must be taken for an injury to the left posterior, lower ribs?

AP and LPO

What kVp range is recommended for an AP projection of the ribs found below the diaphragm?

75 to 85 kVp

Which disease or condition may be associated with postoperative complications of open-heart surgery?

Osteomyelitis

Fracture of adjacent ribs in two or more locations with associated pulmonary injury is known as a(n) _____ rib injury

Flail chest

The radiographic appearance of the erosion of bony rib margins is a possible indication of:

Osteomyelitis

A congenital defect characterized by anterior protrusion of the lower sternum and xiphoid process is termed:

pectus carinatum

Which condition of the sternum is often termed “funnel chest”?

Pectus excavatum

The condition flail chest is most commonly caused by:

Blunt trauma

The condition flail chest is most commonly caused by:

Ribs 1 through 9