BoneFlat bone

Rib 11 (right) — floating rib

Latin: Costa XI dextra

Location: Posterior lower thorax

View the rib 11 (right) — floating rib in 3D

Function

Right floating rib, splinting the posterior abdominal wall and the kidney's upper pole with muscular — not cartilaginous — cover.

Landmarks

  • Single facet
  • Free anterior tip

Articulations (joints)

  • T11 vertebral body only

Clinical relevance

Floating-rib fractures are easily missed on initial chest films; repeat CT is warranted when renal injury is suspected.

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