
Rib Cage (Thoracic Cage): What It Is, Anatomy & Function
Oct 29, 2024 · What is the rib cage? Your rib cage is the cage-like structure of bones that frames your chest cavity (thoracic cavity). It’s also called your thoracic cage. Your 24 ribs (12 on each side) wrap around the sides of your torso from front to back. They connect to your thoracic spine in the back and your sternum (breastbone) in the front.
Rib Cage: Names of Bones, Anatomy, Functions, & Labeled Diagram
The rib cage, also known as the thoracic cage, is the bony structure that shapes and protects the thoracic cavity and the organs in it. It has a conical shape and looks somewhat like a birdcage (hence the name). This part of the axial skeleton is located in …
Rib cage - Wikipedia
The rib cage or thoracic cage is an endoskeletal enclosure in the thorax of most vertebrates that comprises the ribs, vertebral column and sternum, which protect the vital organs of the thoracic cavity, such as the heart, lungs and great vessels and support the shoulder girdle to form the core part of the axial skeleton.
The Ribs: Location, Anatomy, Functions, & Labeled Diagram
Nov 18, 2022 · The ribs are 12 pairs of curved, flat bones that form the thoracic cage or rib cage, the bony structure that shapes the thoracic cavity and protects various organs. Despite being relatively thin and light, these bones are highly resilient.
Rib cage | Anatomy & Function | Britannica - Encyclopedia Britannica
Mar 17, 2025 · Rib cage, basketlike skeletal structure that forms the chest, or thorax, made up of the ribs and their corresponding attachments to the sternum and the vertebral column. The rib cage surrounds the lungs and the heart, serving as an important means of bony protection for these vital organs.
Rib Cage Anatomy: Complete Guide with Parts, Names & Diagram
Aug 24, 2024 · The rib cage is a flat bone collection that protects vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Most humans have 24 ribs grouped into 12 pairs. Occasionally, someone may have an additional rib, known as a cervical rib, on one or both sides of the neck.
Rib cage - Structure, Location, Anatomy, Function, Diagram
Jan 27, 2025 · The rib cage is a bony framework in the thoracic region that provides structural support and protection for vital organs such as the heart and lungs. It is composed of 12 pairs of ribs, the sternum (breastbone), and thoracic vertebrae.
Rib Cage: What To Know - WebMD
Mar 7, 2025 · What Is the Rib Cage? The rib cage is part of the axial skeleton. The average human is born with the same number of ribs regardless of gender. The ribs articulate with the thoracic vertebra....
7.5 The Thoracic Cage – Anatomy & Physiology - Open …
Describe the components of the thoracic cage. The thoracic cage (rib cage) forms the thorax (chest) portion of the body. It consists of the 12 pairs of ribs with their costal cartilages and the sternum (Figure 7.5.1). The ribs are anchored posteriorly to the 12 thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12). The thoracic cage protects the heart and lungs.
Thoracic cage: Anatomy and clinical notes - Kenhub
Jun 6, 2023 · Overview of the surface anatomy landmarks found on the thorax and upper limbs. The thoracic cage, also known as the rib cage, is the osteocartilaginous structure that encloses the thorax. It is formed by the 12 thoracic vertebrae, 12 pairs of ribs and associated costal cartilages and the sternum.