costal cartilage
Quick Summary
Costal cartilages are pliable cartilages that connect the first seven ribs to the sternum, forming what are known as "true ribs". These cartilages are a type of hyaline cartilage, which is a resilient connective tissue found in various parts of the human skeleton. Hyaline cartilage is also present at the ends of ribs, in the nose, larynx, trachea, and bronchi. Unlike bone, cartilage lacks blood vessels and nerves, receiving nutrients through diffusion. The rib cage, which includes these costal cartilages, protects vital organs like the lungs and heart.123
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