Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

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Prepare for the COMLEX-USA with quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Gear up for your osteopathic medicine exam!

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How are ribs 11-12 classified?

  1. True ribs

  2. False ribs

  3. Floating ribs

  4. Fixed ribs

The correct answer is: Floating ribs

Ribs 11 and 12 are classified as floating ribs because they are not attached to the sternum or to other ribs via costal cartilage. Floating ribs have no anterior attachment to the sternum, setting them apart from true ribs, which connect directly to the sternum, and false ribs, which are indirectly connected to the sternum via costal cartilage. The anatomical position of floating ribs allows them greater mobility and contributes to the flexibility of the thoracic wall. This classification is also significant in the context of injury and trauma, as floating ribs are more prone to fracture and can potentially cause damage to internal organs due to their lack of protective anterior attachment.

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