Bony Thorax

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and functions of the bony thorax, including components of the thorax and various rib classifications.

Sternum

The flat bone in the center of the chest, which is divided into three parts: manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.

True ribs

Ribs 1 to 7 that attach directly to the sternum with their own cartilage.

False ribs

Ribs 8 to 12 that do not attach directly to the sternum; they attach indirectly through the cartilage of the 7th rib.

Floating ribs

Ribs 11 and 12 that do not attach to the sternum and only attach to the vertebrae.

Intercostal spaces

Spaces between the ribs that house muscles and nerves.

Manubrium

The superior portion of the sternum, featuring the jugular notch at the superior border.

Sternal angle

The junction between the manubrium and the body of the sternum, located approximately at the T4-T5 vertebrae level.

Xiphoid process

The smallest and most distal portion of the sternum, which can vary in size and may remain cartilage.

Costovertebral joint

The joint between a rib and a thoracic vertebra.

Costotransverse joint

The joint formed between the rib's tubercle and the corresponding transverse process of the thoracic vertebra.

Sternoclavicular joint

The joint between the sternum and the clavicle (collarbone).

Sterno-costal joint

The joint between the sternum and the costal cartilage of the ribs.

Diaphragm

A dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in respiration.

Inspiration

The phase of respiration where the ribs elevate and the thoracic cavity expands, allowing air to enter the lungs.

Expiration

The phase of respiration where the ribs depress and the thoracic cavity decreases in volume, expelling air from the lungs.

Pectus excavatum

A condition where the sternum is sunken into the chest, creating a concave appearance.

Pectus carinatum

A condition where the sternum protrudes outward, creating a pigeon chest appearance.