Sixth rib

Costa vera VI

SkeletalSkeletonThoraxLeft and right

View left in 3D View right in 3D

What it is

The sixth rib, a true (vertebrosternal) rib: a curved flattened bar whose head articulates with T6 and the vertebra above, its tubercle with the T6 transverse process, sloping down and forward to its costal cartilage.

Function

Protects the thoracic organs and moves up and out with the intercostal muscles during breathing (bucket-handle motion).

Size

Cross-section ≈ 6 × 11 mm; arc length ≈ 30 cm

Clinical note

Rib fractures are most common at the angle of the rib, the weakest point of the curve.