What is a rib cage?

Other articles where Rib cage is discussed: The rib cage, or thoracic basket, consists of the 12 thoracic (chest) vertebrae, the 24 ribs, and the breastbone, or sternum. The ribs are curved, compressed bars of bone, with each succeeding rib, from the first, or uppermost, becoming more open in curvature. read more

The rib cage is an arrangement of bones in the thorax of most vertebrates. It is formed by the vertebral column, ribs and sternum and encloses the heart and lungs. read more

The rib cage helps push air out of the lungs as well. Muscles lining the rib cage help move the rib cage up upon inhalation, so the lungs can expand. During exhalation, the muscles and the lungs relax, allowing the weight of the rib cage to push out carbon dioxide air through the mouth and nose. read more

rib cage anatomy The rib cage, shaped in a mild cone shape and more flexible than most bone sets, is made up of varying elements such as the thoracic vertebra, 12 equally paired ribs, costal cartilage, and held together anteriorly by the sternum. read more