Pump-handle is a movement of the ribs that results in a change in the anteroposterior diameter of the thorax.[1]
Definition
editOne of the most important functions of the ribs and diaphragm is the change in volume of the thorax that helps inspiration and expiration.[2] In general, the ribs move around two axes.[1] The anterior end of the rib is lower than the posterior end; therefore, during elevation of the rib, the anterior end also moves forwards. Movement at costovertebral joints 2 to 6 about a side-to-side axis results in raising and lowering the sternal end of the rib, the "pump-handle" movement. This occurs mostly in the vertebrosternal ribs. In elevation, this increases the anteroposterior diameter of the thorax.[1][3]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ a b c "Chapter 20: The thoracic wall and mediastinum". www.dartmouth.edu. Archived from the original on 2005-02-26.
- ^ Drake, Richard L.; Vogl, Wayne; Tibbitts, Adam W.M. Mitchell; illustrations by Richard; Richardson, Paul (2005). Gray's anatomy for students. Philadelphia: Elsevier/Churchill Livingstone. ISBN 978-0-8089-2306-0.
- ^ "Figure 20-7". www.dartmouth.edu. Archived from the original on 2006-12-08.