In thoracic anatomy, the thoracic cage is a jointed skeletal structure formed by the twelve thoracic vertebrae posteriorly, the sternum (manubrium, body, and xiphoid process) anteriorly, and twelve pairs of ribs connecting the two via bony and cartilaginous articulations. This structure serves the dual function of protecting the thoracic viscera while enabling respiration, since expansion of the articulated cage against its fixed posterior and anterior points is what allows the lungs to draw in air. The clinical relevance of this anatomy lies in how structural or articular pathology (e.g., scoliosis, ankylosing spondylitis) can impair the mechanics of cage expansion and thereby compromise ventilation.
In thoracic anatomy, the thoracic cage is a jointed skeletal structure formed by the twelve thoracic vertebrae posteriorly, the sternum (manubrium, body, and xiphoid process) anteriorly, and twelve p…