GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Detailed explanation-1: -The rib cage has a total of 24 bones or 12 pairs of bones in total. It provides structure to the body and also protects internal organs present inside the thoracic cavity, such as the heart and lungs. It is connected to the bone called sternum and in the back, it is connected to the vertebral column.

Detailed explanation-2: -A typical human thoracic cage consists of 12 pairs of ribs and the adjoining costal cartilages, the sternum (along with the manubrium and xiphoid process), and the 12 thoracic vertebrae articulating with the ribs.

Detailed explanation-3: -The eleventh and twelfth don’t have any articulations anteriorly and are free. Their only attachment is posterior, to the eleventh and twelfth thoracic ribs. As these ribs aren’t fixed anteriorly, they seem to float and are called floating ribs.

Detailed explanation-4: -Hence, the presence of 13 pairs of ribs is a good indicator of long gap atresia. In a child who has TEF with 13 pairs of ribs, suitable modifications in operative procedure can be planned. The report also discusses the possible embryological basis of this association.