SUBCOSTAL Meaning and
Definition
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Subcostal is an adjective that is primarily used in medical and anatomical contexts. It refers to something that is situated below or near the lower edge of the ribs, or pertains to the region located beneath the ribs.
In medical terms, the subcostal area or region is the area below the ribs where various organs and structures may be found. For instance, the subcostal angle is the angle formed by the meeting of the two lower ribs, which can be of clinical significance when assessing the size and shape of the liver or spleen. Additionally, the subcostal incision is a surgical procedure in which an opening is made just below the ribs to access the abdominal cavity.
Furthermore, subcostal also describes structures or actions that are closely associated with or located beneath the ribs. For example, the subcostal muscles are a group of muscles located beneath the lower ribs, and they play a role in breathing. Similarly, subcostal retractions refer to inward movement or retraction of the spaces between the rib bones during breathing, often indicative of respiratory distress.
In summary, the term subcostal is used to describe something that is situated below or in proximity to the lower edge of the ribs, or to denote actions or structures associated with that region.
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Beneath the ribs, noting a number of arteries and grooves.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SUBCOSTAL
Etymology of SUBCOSTAL
The word "subcostal" is derived from Latin. It can be broken down into two parts: "sub" meaning "under, below" and "costa" meaning "rib". In Latin, "costa" referred to a rib or side, while "sub" indicated a position below or beneath. Therefore, "subcostal" originally described something situated below or beneath the ribs.
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