Yes, humans typically have 12 sets of ribs.
Human Rib Cage Anatomy
The human rib cage is a bony structure that protects vital organs within the chest, such as the heart and lungs. It consists of the following:
- 12 pairs of ribs (24 individual ribs).
- The sternum (breastbone).
- Costal cartilage.
- Thoracic vertebrae (at the back).
Rib Pairs
The 12 pairs of ribs are categorized as follows:
| Rib Type | Pairs | Vertebral Attachment | Sternal Attachment |
|---|---|---|---|
| True Ribs | 1-7 | T1-T7 | Directly via costal cartilage |
| False Ribs | 8-10 | T8-T10 | Indirectly via costal cartilage of T7 |
| Floating Ribs | 11-12 | T11-T12 | No sternal attachment |
Rib Numbering
As stated in the reference, all ribs are attached at the back to the thoracic vertebrae and are numbered from 1 to 12 according to the vertebrae to which they attach.
Rib Variations
While the standard number of ribs is 12 pairs, anatomical variations can occur. About 1 in 500 people have an extra rib, known as a cervical rib. This extra rib can be present on the right, left, or both sides.
