Interchondral subluxation

BACKGROUND: Classical teaching of rib anatomy contends that the false ribs (7th to 10th) fuse anteriorly to form the costal margin of the chest. Slipped rib syndrome consists of false rib subluxation into the thorax with symptomatic impingement of the intercostal nerve. We sought to determine the incidence of this anatomic finding through anatomic study of the costal margin. METHODS: Cadavers were evaluated for mobility and attachment of the ninth and tenth ribs...

The slipping rib syndrome is an infrequent cause of thoracic and upper abdominal pain and is thought to arise from the inadequacy or rupture of the interchondral fibrous attachments of the anterior ribs. This disruption allows the costal cartilage tips to sublux, impinging on the intercostal nerves. Children with this entity are seldom described in the literature. We present a retrospective review of 12 children and young adults with slipping rib syndrome and a systematic approach for evaluation and treatment...

A case history of the interchondral subluxation syndrome is presented, the anatomy as related to the symptoms discussed and the literature of this so-called "clicking-rib syndrome" reviewed. Unfortunately, this syndrome is not widely recognized but it is hoped that this article will bring it to the attention of those most likely to encounter it-the primary-care physician-and so save numerous unnecessary investigations and consultations. Once one is aware of its existence, the condition is easily diagnosed by careful history and examination alone...