Clinical Notes (Olinger)

Question 1

Which ribs are the most commonly fractured and where on the rib does this occur?

Answer 1

• Middle ribs

- Weakest locus, just anterior to costal angle

Question 2

What are supernumerary ribs?

Answer 2

Extra ribs either in the Cervical or Lumbar region

*Both typically produce no symptoms, however, cervical can produce neural and circulatory problems based on proximity to the Brachial Plexus and Subclavian A.

Question 3

Where does dislocation of ribs occur?

Answer 3

Sternocostal joint

Question 4

Where does separation of ribs occur?

Answer 4

Costochondral joint

Question 5

Thoracentisis

Answer 5

Insertion of a hypodermic needle through the Intercostal musculature between ribs to obtain a fluid sample or drain small amounts of blood or fluid from the Pleural Cavity

Question 6

Where is the needle inserted during thoracentisis?

Answer 6

Between ribs inferior to the Intercostal neurovascular bundle, but superior to the collateral branches

Question 7

Location of chest tube insertion?

Answer 7

Typically inserted in the 5th or 6th Intercostal Space.

Question 8

Thoroscopy

Answer 8

Insertion of a Thoroscope into the Pleural Cavity through small incisions for visualizing and biopsying inside the Pleural Cavity