costal pleural reflection

Last reviewed 01/2018

The costal pleural reflection is the line along which the costal pleura and diaphragmatic pleura surfaces merge. It can be approximated on the surface of the thorax by a line connecting:

• the inferior edge of the sternal pleural reflection on each side
• the 8th rib in the midclavicular line
• the 10th rib in the midaxillary line
• the 12th rib at the junction of shaft and neck

The posteroinferior margin of the parietal pleura is inferior to the head of the 12th rib within the costovertebral angle on each side. It is at this point that the pleura is prone to accidental surgical incision.