Intercostal

Intercostal refers to the anatomical region located between the ribs. The term is most commonly used in reference to the muscles, nerves, and arteries that occupy this space.

Anatomy

The intercostal space is occupied by three layers of muscles and nerves that run between the ribs. These include the external intercostal muscles, the internal intercostal muscles, and the innermost intercostal muscles.

Intercostal Muscles

The intercostal muscles are a group of muscles found in the chest that help with the mechanics of breathing. There are three layers of intercostal muscles: the external intercostal muscles, the internal intercostal muscles, and the innermost intercostal muscles.

External Intercostal Muscles

The external intercostal muscles are the most superficial of the three layers. They originate from the lower border of each rib and insert into the upper border of the rib below.

Internal Intercostal Muscles

The internal intercostal muscles are found between the external and innermost layers. They originate from the lower border of each rib and insert into the upper border of the rib below.

Innermost Intercostal Muscles

The innermost intercostal muscles are the deepest layer of the intercostal muscles. They are separated from the internal intercostal muscles by the intercostal nerves and vessels.

Intercostal Nerves

The intercostal nerves are part of the peripheral nervous system and arise from the anterior rami of the thoracic spinal nerves from T1 to T11.

Intercostal Arteries

The intercostal arteries supply blood to the chest wall and breast. They are divided into three groups: the highest intercostal artery, the anterior intercostal arteries, and the posterior intercostal arteries.

Clinical Significance

Intercostal spaces are clinically significant as they are often used as access points for medical procedures such as thoracentesis and intercostal drainage.

See Also

• Thoracic diaphragm
• Respiratory system
• Human anatomy

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