The Ribcage and Sternum
The ribcage encloses the thoracic cavity protecting the delicate organs like the heart and lungs.
The ribcage is made of ribs articulating with the vertebral column to the back and the sternum to the front.
The ribs have cartilage at the articulating points.
The sternum is a bony structure that supports the ribs and protects the organs in the thoracic cavity.
At the lower end, the sternum and rib cage offers surfaces for attachment of muscles of the back and the abdomen.
