Cervical Rib

Description

The cervical vertebral levels have been labeled in yellow. The level at which the asymmetrical cervical ribs exist is labeled in orange/blue. The first thoracic vertebral transverse processes are labeled in green.

Name

• Cervical Rib
• Neck rib
• Supernumerary rib
• Accessory rib

General

• Accessory rib which arises from the seventh cervical vertebrae
• Occur in approximately 0.5% of the population, typically bilateral
• Can be considered a congenital "overdevelopment" of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebrae

Type

• Type 1: Complete rib that articulates with the first rib or manubrium
• Type 2: Incomplete rib with a free distal tip
• Type 3: Incomplete rib with a distal fibrous band attachment
• Type 4: Short piece of bone extending beyond the C7 transverse process

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Clinical Significance

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

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See Also

• Accessory Bones Main
• Cervical Spine Anatomy
• Thoracic Anatomy Main
• Radiology Main

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