Hooper, Robert [Editor]: The Anatomist's Vade-Mecum: Containing The Anatomy, Physiology, Morbid Appearances, &c. Of The Human Body ; The Art of making Anatomical Preparations, &c. To which are added Anatomical, Physiological, Medical, And Surgical Examinations For Students (London, 1811)

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nerve. An oial fossa at the anterior edge of each rib, fcr
receiving the cartilage of the sternum.

Connexion. Anteriorly with the sternum, by synchondro-
sis, and posteriorly with the bodies and transverse processes
of the dorsal vertebra;, by giuglymus.

Joints. The joints formed by the connexion of tfie ribs
with the vertebra and sternum, are of the giuglymus kind, al-
lowing the alternate motions of the ribs, rising and falling, as
we draw in and let out our breath. The great head of each
rib is hinged in the intervertebral substance, touching two
Vertebra;; this joint is surrounded by a capsular ligament:
the little head which is joined to the transverse process of a
vertebra, is also covered by a capsular ligament; and this
connexion is strengthened by two transverse ligaments, the
one externa] the other internal. The cartilages of the ribs
which join the sternum, are also connected by capsular liga-
Jnents, and ligamentous fibres, which expand over the ster-
nal;).

Use. To form the thorax, ts serve for respiration, to d^-
-ic»d the vital viscera, and to give adhesion to muscles.

The ribs, at birth, differ very little in substance and form
from those of adults.

STERNUM.
Os pectoris.

Tue breast-bone is an oblong fiat bone, shaped somewhat
like a dagger, situated in the anterior part of the thorax, be-
tween the true ribs. It is of a very spongy texture, and
mostly consists of two, and sometimes of three portions. A
sharply-pointed cartilage is attached to the inferior extremity
of the steiT/Uffij which is named, from its supposed resem-

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