Bones in the Thorax
The sternum or the breast bone as it is more commonly known, is a flat bone in the anterior aspect of the thorax. It lies in the midline of the chest and as a part of the bony thoracic wall, it protects the internal thoracic viscera - such as the heart, lungs and esophagus.
The ribs are composed of 12 bones that form a protective ‘cage’ around the thorax. The ribs articulate with the vertebral column posteriorly, and terminate anteriorly as cartilage (known as costal cartilage).
The ribs protect internal thoracic organs and have a role in breathing.
The second segment of the vertebral column is the thoracic spine. This segment of the vertebral column consists of twelve vertebrae, which are separated by intervertebral discs.
The thoracic spine, sternum, and ribs collectively form the thoracic cage which protects the internal viscera - such as the heart, lungs and esophagus.
