Rib – (1st) [true rib]

Anatomy

Most curved, usually shortest (sometimes 12th shorter). Only rib whose posterior/vertebral articulation is with only 1 vertebra (T1). Only rib whose anterior/sternal articulation is entirely with manubrium (lateral extremity of the arm of the cruciform – ross-shaped – manubrium.

Clinical

Ordinarily there are 12 ribs, sometimes 11, this number added to if there are cervical or lumbar homologues. Posterior/vertebral extremity has head, neck tubercle. Head articulates with bodies of 2 adjacent vertebrae, neck extends laterally and continues as body (which curves forward/sternally).

Where neck and body meet, there is a tubercle which articulates with transverse process of lower of same 2 vertebrae.

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