BoneFlat bone

Rib 10 (left) — false rib

Latin: Costa X sinistra

Location: Thorax — lowest false rib

View the rib 10 (left) — false rib in 3D

Function

The lowest rib whose cartilage joins the costal margin; with ribs 9 and 11 it overlies the spleen on the left.

Landmarks

  • Costal groove
  • Rounded free anterior end

Articulations (joints)

  • T9–T10 vertebrae (single facet)
  • Costal margin cartilage

Clinical relevance

The lowest point of the costal margin (10th costal cartilage) marks the subcostal plane at about L3.

Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.