Rib Cage

Picture of the rib cage

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The rib cage consists of 24 ribs (2 sets of 12), which are attached to a long, flat bone in the center of the chest called the sternum. The ribs are connected to the sternum with a strong, somewhat flexible material called cartilage.

The rib cage help protects the organs in the chest, such as the heart and lungs, from damage.

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Current as ofMarch 21, 2017

Current as of: March 21, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine