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Thorax

The thorax is the body's protective structure for the heart and lungs, while also enabling breathing through the interaction of bones, joints and muscles.

MRI Chest
Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI Chest

6 495 kr

Contents

Quick version

What is the thorax?

The thorax, or thorax, is the part of the skeleton that encloses the chest cavity. It consists of the breastbone (sternum), twelve pairs of ribs, and thoracic spine (thoracic vertebrae). The thorax serves as protection and plays a crucial role in breathing.

Anatomy of the thorax

The thorax is made up of both bone and cartilage. The ribs attach to the spine at the back and to the sternum at the front via cartilage. Between the ribs are intercostal muscles that help with breathing in and out. Heart and lungs are enclosed in the thoracic cavity.

Functions

The thorax has three main functions: it protects vital organs such as the heart, lungs and large blood vessels, it enables breathing and provides attachment for respiratory and core stabilizing muscles. The thorax also contributes to posture and upper body movements.

Nervous system and blood supply

Nerves from the spinal cord run between the ribs and control the muscles and sensation in the chest wall. The blood supply comes from intercostal arteries and veins as well as large vessels such as the aorta and vena cava.

Common conditions and diseases

Pain in the chest can be caused by muscle tension, inflammation, rib fractures or heart and lung diseases. Muscle inflammation (myositis), costochondritis and pleurisy are examples of common causes.

Examination and diagnosis

Diagnosis of chest complaints is made through clinical examination, auscultation of the lungs and heart and, if necessary, ECG, X-ray, MRI of the chest, ultrasound or computed tomography. It is important to rule out serious conditions such as heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain when breathing or coughing
  • Pressure over the chest
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tenderness over the ribs
  • Shaking pain with movement

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Rib fracture
  • Costochondritis
  • Pleuris
  • Heart attack
  • Muscle tension in the chest

Questions and answers

The rib cage consists of the sternum, twelve pairs of ribs, and the vertebrae of the thoracic spine. The rib cage protects the heart, lungs, and large blood vessels and contributes to respiratory function.

Chest pain can be caused by muscle strains, rib fractures, inflammation, heart or lung disease. It is important to assess the symptoms from a holistic perspective.

Heart problems often cause pressing pain at rest, while muscular pain is felt with movement or pressure. Examination with an ECG and blood tests helps determine the cause.

Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage between the ribs and breastbone. The condition causes sharp, localized pain that is often worsened by movement or deep breathing.

Yes, stress can cause muscle tension in the chest and cause stabbing or pressing pain. This is common, but at the same time, more serious causes should be ruled out first.

It usually heals on its own within a few weeks. During the healing process, pain relief, breathing exercises, and avoidance of heavy lifting are recommended.

Whether it's dangerous depends on the cause. Muscle-related pain is harmless, but sudden, severe chest pain can be a sign of a heart attack or lung problem and requires immediate medical attention.

It is an inflammation of the pleura that surrounds the lung. It causes breathing-related chest pain and often occurs with viral infections or pneumonia.

The most important are the intercostal muscles between the ribs, the diaphragm, and the pectoralis major and minor. These control breathing and stabilize the upper body by facilitating the movement of the chest during inhalation and exhalation, as well as contributing to posture and arm movements. The serratus anterior and subclavius ​​also have supporting functions in the thoracic musculoskeletal system.

Tests related to Thorax

Skeleton and Joints

MRI Chest
Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI Chest

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Doctors comment
  • MRI Thorax – magnetic resonance imaging of the soft tissues, vessels and tissues of the chest.
  • Suitable for chest pain, swelling, lymph node changes or breathing difficulties.
  • Provides detailed images without radiation – particularly valuable in tumor investigation or inflammation.
  • Painless examination with written specialist opinion – referral is automatically included.

6 495 kr