head

Last reviewed 01/2018

The head of a rib:

  • medial, terminal section of rib that articulates with the spinal column
  • wedge-shaped
  • surface in contact with vertebra has 2 articular facets which together contribute to the joints of the rib head
  • radiate ligament attached to front of head
  • relations:
    • anteriorly: radiate ligament, sympathetic trunk
    • medially: body of vertebrae, intervertebral disc
    • posteriorly: lamina of vertebra