The spelling of the word "musculus intercostalis externus" can be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with its Latin roots. The IPA phonetic transcription can help you understand how to pronounce it correctly. The word is pronounced as /ˈmʌskjʊləs ɪntərˈkɒstəlɪs ɛkˈstɜːnəs/. "Musculus" means muscle, "intercostalis" means between the ribs, and "externus" means external. Therefore, this word refers to the external muscle that lies between the ribs. Correctly spelling and pronouncing medical terms is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The term "musculus intercostalis externus" refers to a specific muscle found in the human body, particularly in the thoracic region. "Musculus" means "muscle" in Latin, while "intercostalis" is derived from "inter" meaning "between" and "costa" meaning "rib". Lastly, "externus" indicates that it is an external or outer muscle.
The musculus intercostalis externus is one of the external intercostal muscles present between the ribs. It is a thin, flat muscle that runs obliquely downward and forward from the superior border of one rib to the inferior border of the rib below it. These muscles are located on both sides of the rib cage and are responsible for connecting the adjacent ribs.
The musculus intercostalis externus plays an important role in respiration. During inhalation, the muscles contract, lifting the ribcage and expanding the thoracic cavity. This action increases the volume of the chest, allowing the lungs to expand and draw air into them. As a result, the musculus intercostalis externus is vital for the process of breathing and ensuring adequate oxygen supply to the body.
In summary, the musculus intercostalis externus is an essential external intercostal muscle located between the ribs. Its main function is to aid in respiration by elevating the ribcage during inhalation, allowing for the expansion of the thoracic cavity and the intake of air into the lungs.
Each arises from lower border of one rib and passes obliqualy downward and inward to be inserted into the upper border of rib below; action, expands chest; nerve supply, intercostal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.