What is costa bone?

The ribcage (also known as costal cage or thoracic cage) refers to the bony structure of the chest that protects vital organs in it, such as the lungs and the heart.

Anatomy of the rib cage

The ribcage consists of the sternum (flat bone in front of the chest) and the 12 pairs of ribs. The first seven pairs of ribs are termed true ribs as they are attached to the sternum by the costal cartilage. Three pairs are termed false ribs and are attached to the cartilage of the ribs above. The last two pair are termed floating ribs as they are only attached posteriorly.

Functions of the rib cage

Protection:

- Protects organs such as the heart and the lungs from mechanical injury.

Breathing:

- Along with the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles, the rib cage is involved in the act of breathing.

- The ribs move up and down, increasing or decreasing the volume of the chest cavity.

- The decrease or the increase of the chest volume leads to the intake and release of air during the process of breathing.