superior costotransverse ligament

Last reviewed 01/2018

The superior costotransverse ligaments pass between a rib and its corresponding thoracic vertebra:

  • origin on crest of each rib neck on each side
  • attach to inferior margin of transverse process of superior vertebra within spinal column on each side
  • can be divided into 2 bands:
    • anterior band merges with posterior intercostal membrane
    • posterior band in same plane as external intercostal muscles
  • aids stabilization of costotransverse joint