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AN21.1-11 | Introduction to Thoracic cage
Learning Objectives
- Describe the parts and features of the sternum and identify the sternal angle as a clinical landmark (AN21.1)
- Classify ribs into typical and atypical, and describe their distinguishing features (AN21.2)
- Describe the features of typical and atypical thoracic vertebrae (AN21.3)
- Describe the boundaries and clinical significance of the thoracic inlet and outlet (AN21.4)
- Describe the layers of the intercostal space — muscles, membranes, and their arrangement (AN21.5)
- Describe the course and distribution of a typical intercostal nerve and identify atypical intercostal nerves (AN21.6)
- Describe the intercostal vessels and their clinical significance (AN21.7)
- Describe the joints of the thorax — costovertebral and costotransverse joints (AN21.8)
- Explain the mechanics of respiration — pump-handle and bucket-handle movements (AN21.9)
- Describe the costochondral and interchondral joints (AN21.10)
- Describe the mediastinum and its subdivisions (AN21.11)
INSTRUCTIONS
This module covers the thoracic cage — the bony and muscular framework that protects your heart and lungs and makes breathing possible. We'll start with the bones you can feel on your own chest and build outward to how the whole cage moves during respiration.
Parallel connections: In Physiology, you're studying respiratory mechanics (PY6) — the lung compliance and airway resistance that complement the chest wall movements you learn here. In Biochemistry, you're learning about carbohydrate metabolism (BI3) — the energy pathways that fuel the intercostal muscles and diaphragm every single breath you take.
References
- OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e, Chapter 7: Axial Skeleton (textbook (CC BY 4.0))
- B.D. Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, Vol. 1, Ch 13-14: Thoracic Wall (textbook)
- Netter's Atlas of Human Anatomy, 8th ed., Plates 185–199 (Thorax) (atlas)
- Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed., Chapter 3: Thorax (textbook)
Version 2.0 | Claude (AI-generated), NMC CBUC 2024, Adapted from OpenStax A&P 2e (CC BY 4.0)