Intercostal (Adjective)
Meaning
Located or occurring between the ribs; "intercostal muscles".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- The intercostal space between the ribs is a potential site for surgical incisions.
- Intercostal nerves arise from the thoracic nerves and supply the intercostal muscles.
- The intercostal muscles are a group of muscles located between the ribs that help expand and contract the chest cavity.
- An intercostal drain is a tube inserted between the ribs to drain fluid from the pleural space.
- The intercostal spaces are potential sites for intercostal artery aneurysms to develop.