Question

Identify the Vertebrochondral Ribs from the following
A. All twelve pairs of ribs
B. \[{10^{th}}\] and \[{11^{th}}\] pairs of ribs
C. \[{8^{th}}\], \[{9^{th}}\] and \[{10^{th}}\] pairs of ribs
D. \[{11^{th}}\] and \[{12^{th}}\] pairs of ribs

Answer 1

Hint: The Vertebrochondral ribs are those pairs of ribs which are generally termed as “false ribs”. The term “false” is used as they are joined with the vertebrae at one end and with the costal cartilage on the other end. These other ends are not joined to the sternum.

Complete Answer:
Out of the 12 pairs of ribs, there are some designated pairs of ribs that are collectively known as “Vertebrochondral”.
1. The \[{11^{th}}\] pair of the ribs is known as “floating ribs” because they are only connected to the vertebrae at one end. The other end is unattached.
2. Along with the \[{11^{th}}\] pair of ribs, the \[{12^{th}}\] pair is the last pair of floating ribs in the vertebral column.
3. The \[{8^{th}}\], \[{9^{th}}\] and \[{10^{th}}\] pairs of ribs in the rib cage of human beings are called “false ribs” as they are only connected to the vertebrae at one end and to the costal cartilage at the other end in place of the sternum.
4. Hence, we can say that the \[{8^{th}}\], \[{9^{th}}\] and \[{10^{th}}\] pairs of ribs form the Vertebrochondral ribs.

Note: The ribcage of humans has been divided into three types. The first seven pairs of ribs are the Vertebrosternal Ribs which are also known as “true ribs”. The second type is the Vertebrochondral Ribs which comprises of the \[{8^{th}}\], \[{9^{th}}\] and \[{10^{th}}\] pairs of ribs. They are also known as “false ribs”. And, the ‘Vertebrae Free’ comprises the last two pairs of ribs which are also known as the floating ribs.