Notes
Rib & Vertebra Anatomy
Sections
Rib Anatomy
Rib Features
- Head
- Articulates with the vertebral body; typically comprises two articular surfaces separated by a bony crest.
- Neck
- Extends from the head, and terminates at the tubercle.
- Tubercle
- Comprises an articular facet, which is where the rib articulates with the transverse process of the vertebra.
- Shaft
- Longest portion of the rib, extends from tubercle to rib end.
- Angle
- Bend in rib, just lateral to tubercle.
Rib/vertebra articulation
- Head and tubercle of rib articulate with body and thoracic process of vertebrae.
Intercostal spaces
- The spaces between the ribs
- House muscles and neurovascular structures.
- Intercostal neurovascular bundle, especially the intercostal artery, must be avoided during insertion of a chest tube.