Breaking the cage: Rib fractures

[摘要] Two of the most important organs in the body, the heart and lungs, are protected by a bony cage created by the ribs and attached muscles. The rib cage comprises 12 ribs on each hemithorax: seven ribs attached to the midline sternum, three ribs attached to the sternum through costal cartilage, and two floating ribs. The attached muscle layers protect the heart and lungs but also aid in the ever-important task of breathing.

[学科分类] 外科医学