Costicartilage is a medical term referring to a type of rib cartilage. The correct spelling of this word is "kɒstiːkɑːtɪlɪdʒ". The first syllable "kɒstiː" refers to the ribs, while "kɑːtɪlɪdʒ" is the correct spelling of the word cartilage. The "c" in costicartilage is pronounced like a "k." The phonetic transcription of this word helps to clarify the proper pronunciation for medical professionals and students studying anatomy. Proper spelling and pronunciation are crucial in medical terminology to ensure clear communication and accuracy.
Costicartilage is a hyphenated compound term consisting of two parts: "costi" referring to the ribs or costals, and "cartilage" indicating a type of connective tissue in the body. In anatomy, costicartilage specifically refers to the cartilaginous extension or prolongation of the ribs, found between the bony portion of the rib and the sternum.
Costicartilage aids in the flexibility and support of the ribcage, connecting the bony rib ends to the sternum. It is composed of tough yet flexible hyaline cartilage, which provides structural integrity while allowing movement. This cartilage varies in length between individual ribs, with the first seven ribs having costicartilage that directly attaches to the sternum, commonly referred to as true ribs. The remaining five pairs of ribs possess costicartilage that indirectly connects to the sternum or remains unattached altogether, known as false ribs.
Due to its elasticity and ability to absorb shock, costicartilage plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs in the chest cavity, such as the heart and lungs. It acts as a buffer against external forces, preventing direct damage to these organs by absorbing and redistributing impact. Moreover, costicartilage aids in the expansion and contraction of the ribcage during breathing, allowing for efficient respiratory movements.
Costal cartilage.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "costicartilage" is derived from two main components: "costi-" and "-cartilage".
1. "Costi-" is a combining form derived from the Latin word "costa", meaning "rib". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to aspects related to the ribs or rib cage.
2. "-Cartilage" derives from the Latin word "cartilago", which means "gristle" or "flexible connective tissue". Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in various parts of the body, including the rib cage.
So, when combined, "costicartilage" refers to the cartilage related to or associated with the ribs.