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The rib cage consists of 24 ribs (2 sets of 12), which are attached to a long, flat bone in the center of the chest called the sternum. The ribs are connected to the sternum with a strong, somewhat flexible material called cartilage.
The rib cage help protects the organs in the chest, such as the heart and lungs, from damage.
Current as of: March 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
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