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

Definition Of Ribs and Rib Cage

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 ribcage, 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.

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.

Rib Anatomy (Structure)

The anatomy of the ribs is discussed below:

Basic Features of Ribs

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

• Neck Shaft

• Head with two articular facets

Exceptions in Rib Structure

• 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 do not have a neck and their articular facet is single.

Articulation of Ribs

• 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

Functions Of The Rib Cage

Some functions of the ribs are:

Protection

Protects the heart and lungs from physical injuries

Respiration

Expansion and contraction during 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. It also contributes to the formation of vertebral column.

Ribs In Other Animals

Ribs in other animals include:

• 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

Rib Cage NEET MCQs (With Answers & Explanations)

Important questions asked in NEET from this topic are:

• Anatomy of the rib

• Classification of ribs

• Functions of the rib cage

Practice Questions for NEET

Q1. Ventrally ribs connected to sternum with the help of

1. Elastic cartilage

2. Hyaline cartilage

3. Collagen fibres

4. None of these

Correct answer: 2) Hyaline cartilage

Explanation:

The ribs are curved and flat bones that form the protective cage around the heart and lungs known as the rib cage. Dorsally each rib is attached to the thoracic vertebrae which acts as a connecting link to the spine. Ventrally the ribs are connected to the sternum by hyaline cartilage which allows some flexibility for the expansion and contraction of the chest during breathing.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2) Hyaline cartilage.

Q2. Ribs having two articulation surfaces on its dorsal end are called

1. Monocephalic

2. Bicephalic

3. Tetracephalic

4. Both 1 and 2

Correct answer: 2) Bicephalic

Explanation:

Ribs are bicephalic, having two articulation surfaces at their dorsal ends. This means each rib articulates with two different vertebrae, one of which is the body of a thoracic vertebra at the head of the rib and the other the body of an adjacent vertebra. Dual articulation helps in the flexibility and stability of the ribcage, thus aiding in the expansion and contraction of the thoracic cavity during respiration.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2) Bicephalic.

Q3. The _______ pairs of ribs do not articulate directly with sternum but join the 7th rib with the help of hyaline cartilage

1. 5th , 6th only

2. 8th , 9th , 10th , 11th only

3. 11th , 12th only

4. 8th , 9th , 10th only

Correct answer: 4) 8th , 9th , 10th only

Explanation:

False Ribs - The 8th, 9th and 10th pairs of ribs do not articulate directly with the sternum but join the seventh rib with the help of hyaline cartilage. These are called vertebra chondral (false) ribs. False ribs are termed "vertebrochondral" because they connect to the sternum indirectly through the cartilage of the rib above. These ribs provide some protection to the internal organs but are more flexible than the true ribs. They help in the movement and expansion of the chest during respiration. The cartilage connection allows for slight movement, which aids in respiratory flexibility. The 11th and 12th pairs of ribs are also considered false ribs, but they are "floating ribs" because they do not connect to the sternum or the cartilage at all.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4 - 8th, 9th, 10th only

Also Read:

• MCQs on Ribs and Rib Cage

• List of the 206 Bones in Our Body

• Ball and Socket Joint

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