External intercostal membrane

External Intercostal Membrane

The External Intercostal Membrane is a thin, fibrous sheet that fills the gap between the ribs in the human body. It is part of the intercostal space, which is the space between two adjacent ribs. The external intercostal membrane is an important component of the respiratory system, as it aids in the process of breathing.

Etymology

The term "intercostal" comes from the Latin words "inter", meaning "between", and "costa", meaning "rib". The term "membrane" comes from the Latin "membrana", meaning "skin" or "hide".

Anatomy

The external intercostal membrane is located between the external intercostal muscles and the internal intercostal muscles. It extends from the posterior border of the ribs to the costochondral junctions, where the ribs meet the cartilage that connects them to the sternum.

The external intercostal membrane is composed of dense, irregular connective tissue. It is continuous with the parietal pleura, the membrane that lines the inner surface of the thoracic cavity.

Function

The primary function of the external intercostal membrane is to assist in the process of breathing. During inhalation, the external intercostal muscles contract, pulling the ribs upward and outward. This increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs. The external intercostal membrane aids in this process by providing structural support to the external intercostal muscles.

Related Terms

• Intercostal muscles
• Intercostal nerves
• Intercostal arteries
• Intercostal veins
• Respiratory system
• Thoracic cavity

See Also

• Internal intercostal muscles
• Internal intercostal membrane
• Respiratory system
• Thoracic cavity

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