Thoracic skeleton
Skeleton thoracis
Definition
The thoracic skeleton (also known as the thoracic cage) is composed by the thoracic vertebrae on the dorsal aspect, the sternum on the ventral aspect and the ribs laterally.
It encloses the thoracic cavity, which contains various organs, including those involved in respiration.
References
Barone R. Anatomie comparée des mammifères domestiques, Tome 1, Ostéologie, 5th edition, Vigot, Paris, 2017.
Constantinescu GM, Schaller O. Illustrated veterinary anatomical nomenclature, 3rd Edition, Enke Verlag, Stuttgart, 2012.
