Sternocostal joints

The sternocostal joints, also known as sternochondral joints or costosternal articulations, are synovial plane joints of the costal cartilages of the true ribs with the sternum.^[1] The only exception is the first rib, which has a synchondrosis joint since the cartilage is directly united with the sternum.^[1] The sternocostal joints are important for thoracic wall mobility.^[2]

Sternocostal joints
Sternocostal and interchondral articulations. Anterior view.
Details
Identifiers
Latin	articulationes sternocostales
MeSH	D013248
TA98	A03.3.05.001
TA2	1730
FMA	72323
Anatomical terminology [edit on Wikidata]

The ligaments connecting them are:

• Articular capsules
• Intraarticular sternocostal ligament
• Radiate sternocostal ligaments
• Costoxiphoid ligaments

Clinical significance

Ankylosis, joint stiffness caused by ossification, may occur at the sternocostal joints.^[3]

See also

• Costochondritis