Notes on Rib Cage and Respiration

Rib Cage and Respiration

• The rib cage plays a crucial role in respiration, facilitated by gliding joint surfaces in the costovertebral joints.

• These joints allow slight movements in both sagittal and coronal planes.

Sagittal Plane Movement

• Rotational movement at the costo central joints enables the sternum to protrude forward.

• This motion is likened to the handle of an old-fashioned water pump.

• Forward movement increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, aiding inspiration.

Coronal Plane Movement

• Gliding motions at the costocentral joints allow the ribs to elevate and push out bilaterally.

• This motion is compared to a bucket handle.

• Outward movement increases the thoracic cavity volume, assisting inspiration, while inward movement decreases it, assisting expiration.

Intercostal Muscles and Diaphragm

• Intercostal muscles contract to aid in respiration.

• The diaphragm is the primary breathing muscle, to be discussed later.

Forced Inspiration and Expiration

• Thoracic movements are more pronounced during forced inspiration and expiration, such as during or after physical activity.

• These subtle motions become more noticeable after events like open heart surgery.

Open Heart Surgery and Costovertebral Joints

• Open heart surgery involves bisecting the sternum and using rib spreaders.

• This process places significant strain on the costovertebral joints.

• Patients often experience back pain post-surgery, especially when taking deep breaths.

Up Next: Intercostal Musculature and Neurovascular Structures

• The next part will cover intercostal musculature and neurovascular structures in the rib cage.