How Do You Spell COSTOVERTEBRAL?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒstə͡ʊvˌɜːtɪbɹə͡l] (IPA)

The word "costovertebral" is spelled as [ˌkɑːstəʊˈvɜːrtɪbrəl] in IPA phonetic transcription. "Costo-" refers to the ribs, while "vertebral" refers to the spine, so the word is used to describe the joint between the ribs and the vertebrae. The spelling of this word is crucial in medical terminology to ensure accurate communication between healthcare professionals. As with many medical terms, the spelling can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down into its components and using phonetic transcription can aid in memorization and comprehension.

COSTOVERTEBRAL Meaning and Definition

1. Costovertebral is an adjective that refers to the anatomical structures present in the area where the ribs meet the vertebrae. The term is derived from the combination of two words, "costo" meaning "rib," and "vertebral" meaning "pertaining to the vertebrae," reflecting its location and association with these two structures.

   In anatomical terms, the costovertebral region is comprised of the joints, ligaments, and muscles connecting the ribs to the thoracic vertebrae. Specifically, the costovertebral joints are the points where the head of the rib articulates with both the corresponding thoracic vertebra's body and transverse process, forming a connection that permits mobility and stability of the thoracic cage.

   These joints are synovial joints, surrounded by a joint capsule and protected by ligaments such as the costotransverse ligaments and superior and inferior costotransverse ligaments. The surrounding muscles, such as the intercostal muscles, also play a crucial role in rib and thoracic spine movement.

   The costovertebral structures not only contribute to the mechanical integrity of the thoracic cage but also have important clinical implications. For instance, inflammation or injury to the costovertebral region can lead to conditions like costovertebral joint syndrome or costovertebral joint blockage, resulting in pain, restricted movement, or discomfort in the affected area. Therefore, understanding the costovertebral complex is essential in the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.

2. Costocentral.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for COSTOVERTEBRAL

• xostovertebral
• vostovertebral
• fostovertebral
• dostovertebral
• cistovertebral
• ckstovertebral
• clstovertebral
• cpstovertebral
• c0stovertebral
• c9stovertebral
• coatovertebral
• coztovertebral
• coxtovertebral
• codtovertebral
• coetovertebral
• cowtovertebral
• cosrovertebral
• cosfovertebral
• cosgovertebral
• cosyovertebral

Etymology of COSTOVERTEBRAL

The word "costovertebral" comes from the combination of two root words: "costo-" and "vertebral".

1. "Costo-" originates from the Latin word "costa", meaning "rib". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*kostā" which also meant "rib". This root can be traced back to the Sanskrit word "kustham" (rib) and the Greek word "kóteis" (rib).

2. "Vertebral" derives from the Latin word "vertebra", which refers to a bone of the spine or the vertebra. The Latin term "vertebra" comes from the verb "vertere", meaning "to turn" or "to rotate".

Therefore, when combined, "costovertebral" refers to the relationship or association between the ribs (costo-) and the vertebrae (-vertebral).