Cartilago costalis 3 (left)
Ribs 1–8 are the sternal (true) ribs; each possesses its own costal cartilage that articulates with the sternum at a sternocostal joint. These cartilages are flexible and permit the elastic expansion and contraction of the thorax needed for respiration. They also provide attachment sites for intercostal and pectoral muscles. With age the cartilages can mineralize. Trauma can fracture a rib or disrupt its cartilage. The first few costal cartilages lie close to the heart and great vessels, so injuries in this region are potentially serious.
Origin: N/A (bone)
Insertion: N/A (bone)
Action: Protect thoracic organs; expand and contract during breathing; provide attachment for intercostal and abdominal muscles
Rib fractures are diagnosed by palpation, ultrasound, and radiography. Displaced fragments can cause pneumothorax or damage underlying organs. Costochondral junctions are occasionally sites of inflammation or injury. Ultrasound is often more sensitive than radiographs for non-displaced fractures.
## Overview Injury at the costochondral junction (where rib bone meets cartilage) can occur from trauma or repetitive strain. It produces localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a palpable step or in
## Overview Costal cartilage calcification is mineral deposition within the cartilages that connect the ribs to the sternum. It is often an incidental radiographic finding in older horses and is usua
Reluctance to move, rapid shallow breathing, or swelling along the side of the chest after trauma warrants veterinary examination. Most uncomplicated rib fractures heal with rest and pain management.
## Overview Injury at the costochondral junction (where rib bone meets cartilage) can occur from trauma or repetitive strain. It produces localized pain, swelling, and sometimes a palpable step or instability. Horses may show reluctance to bend laterally or sensitivity when the girth is tightened. ## Causes Blunt trauma, falls, or chronic overload from asymmetrical work. ## Diagnosis Palpation elicits focal pain. Ultrasound or radiographs evaluate the junction. Other causes of girthiness are excluded. ## Treatment Rest, anti-inflammatories, and gradual return to work. Severe instability is rare and managed supportively. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for most traumatic injuries with adequate rest. ## Prevention Trauma avoidance and balanced training. Signs include: focal pain at the rib-cartilage junction; swelling; sensitivity to girthing; reluctance to bend
## Overview Costal cartilage calcification is mineral deposition within the cartilages that connect the ribs to the sternum. It is often an incidental radiographic finding in older horses and is usually not a source of clinical pain. Extensive calcification can occasionally contribute to reduced thoracic flexibility. ## Causes Age-related degeneration or prior trauma. The evidence linking it to clinical disease is limited. ## Diagnosis Radiographs or ultrasound show mineral density in the costal cartilages. Clinical relevance is determined by correlation with pain or reduced mobility. ## Treatment None required for incidental findings. Symptomatic cases are managed with anti-inflammatories and mobility work. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent, as most cases are asymptomatic. ## Prevention None specific. Signs include: usually none; occasional localized discomfort or reduced rib-cage flexibility in extensive cases
Rib fractures are diagnosed by palpation, ultrasound, and radiography. Displaced fragments can cause pneumothorax or damage underlying organs. Costochondral junctions are occasionally sites of inflammation or injury. Ultrasound is often more sensitive than radiographs for non-displaced fractures.
Reluctance to move, rapid shallow breathing, or swelling along the side of the chest after trauma warrants veterinary examination. Most uncomplicated rib fractures heal with rest and pain management.
See the Costal Cartilage of Rib 3 (Left) on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model