Ribs Anatomy
What rib numbers are true ribs?
1-7
How many parts compose the sternum?
How many joints are found in the bony thorax?
8 - can you name them all?
What are commons positions for a rib series?
PA chest, AP upper, AP oblique, AP lower
What are the standard positions for a sternum?
RAO and lateral
What are the spaces between ribs called?
Intercostal spaces
What is the palpable concavity on the superior border of the manubrium?
Jugular notch
What type of joint is the costovertebral joint?
Gliding (synovial) - freely movable
Why are ribs usually done AP?
What other position could you do instead of an RAO?
LPO; used on trauma patients
Why are ribs 11 and 12 called floating ribs?
They are attached only to the vertebrae
How long is the sternum?
6 inches
What does the tubercle articulate with?
When doing lower ribs what are the breathing instructions?
Suspend respiration at full expiration - why?
You will see the sternum projected free of superimposition off of the vertebral column and the heart will provide contrast to better show the sternum.
A typical rib consists of 4 parts -what are they?
Head, neck, tubercle and body
What level is the jugular notch?
T3
Where would you find interchondral joints?
They are found between 6-10, please note between ribs 9-10 it is considered a different joint type
When doing an PA oblique what side is closest to the IR?
The affected side is away. The affected side is closest for AP.
What is the SID for the lateral sternum?
72" .... what is the SID for an RAO?
A person's chest x-ray shows 13 ribs - how can that be?
Cervical or lumbar ribs
What level is the xiphoid process?
T10
Why are most joint freely movable or slightly movable?
They allow for respiration
How many ribs should be seen on an AP projection?
At least 8-10 depending on the size, body habitus, pathology or overall condition of the patient.
What oblique position would you use to demonstrate the right sternoclavicular joint?
PA oblique - LAO