rib-cage
Bony lung enclosure
The rib-cage is the bony structure formed by the ribs curving around from the spine to enclose and protect the heart and lungs.
The term emphasizes the cage-like enclosure: Her heart pounded against her rib-cage.
Also spelled ribcage.
anatomy
Flat chest bone
- vertebraeInterlocking bones of spine
- thoracicOf the chest region
- intercostalBetween the ribs
- cartilageFlexible connective body tissue
respiration
Pulmonary gas exchange
- lungsRespiratory chest organs
- diaphragmMuscle separating chest, abdomen
- expansionIncrease in scope
- contractionReduction in size
inhale · exhale · pulmonary · alveoli · bronchi · ventilation · respiratory · airflow
sternum
Flat chest bone
- vertebraeInterlocking bones of spine
- thoracicOf the chest region
- intercostalBetween the ribs
breathing
Pulmonary gas exchange
contraction · inhale · exhale · pulmonary · alveoli · bronchi · ventilation · respiratory · airflow · inspiration
heart
Circulatory system's pump
enclosure · safeguard · liver · spleen · barrier · armor · protective · guarding · containment
fracture
Split in hard material
- thoracotomySurgical chest wall opening
rack
Frame for holding items