The thoracic cage (rib cage) forms the thorax (chest) portion of the body. It consists of the 12 pairs of ribs with their costal cartilages and the sternum (Figure 1). The ribs are anchored posteriorly to the 12 thoracic vertebrae (T1–T12). The thoracic cage protects the heart and lungs.

What organs are in the thoracic cage?

The thoracic cage protects the heart and lungs. It is composed of 12 pairs of ribs with their costal cartilages and the sternum. The ribs are anchored posteriorly to the 12 thoracic vertebrae. The sternum consists of the manubrium, body, and xiphoid process.

What are the four parts of the thoracic cage?

The thoracic cage can also be described as an osteocartilaginous cage formed by the sternum, 12 pairs of ribs and costal cartilages, 12 thoracic vertebrae and the intervertebral (IV) discs interposed between them. The thoracic cage, like skeletal tissue in most parts of the body, serves to support the thorax.