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The intercostal space (ICS) is the anatomic space between two ribs (Lat. costa). Since there are 12 ribs on each side, there are 11 intercostal spaces, each numbered for the rib superior to it. Since there are 12 ribs on each side, there are 11 intercostal spaces, each numbered for the rib superior to it.
The internal surface, smooth, and concave, is directed downward and a little inward: on its posterior part there is a short costal groove between the ridge of the internal surface of the rib and the inferior border. It protects the intercostal space containing the intercostal veins, intercostal arteries, and intercostal nerves. [6] [4]
This is a common cause of chest pain. [5] Severe trauma may lead to fracture of the costal cartilage. [6] Such injuries often go unnoticed during x-ray scans, but can be diagnosed with CT scans. [6] Surgery is typically used to fix the costal cartilage back onto either the rib or sternum. [6]
Identification of the second rib and thus the second intercostal space inferiorly is useful when auscultating heart sounds. The optimal location for auscultation of the aortic valve is generally the right second intercostal space, whereas the optimal location for auscultation of the pulmonic valve is generally the left second intercostal space.
Passing backward, it splits into the deep cervical artery and the supreme intercostal artery (highest intercostal artery), which descends behind the pleura in front of the necks of the first and second ribs, and anastomoses with the first aortic intercostal (3rd posterior intercostal artery).
In cardiology, Erb's point refers to the third intercostal space on the left sternal border where S2 heart sound is best auscultated. [5] [6] Some sources include the fourth left interspace. [7] Human female breasts are located on the chest wall, most frequently between the second and sixth rib. [4]
The intercostal veins are a group of veins which drain the area between the ribs ("costae"), called the intercostal space. They can be divided as follows: Anterior intercostal veins; Posterior intercostal veins. Posterior intercost vein that drain into the Supreme intercostal vein - 1st intercostal space
The murmur is low intensity, high-pitched, best heard over the left sternal border or over the right second intercostal space, especially if the patient leans forward and holds breath in full expiration. The radiation is typically toward the apex. The configuration is usually decrescendo and has a blowing character.