Word parts
What it means
Describes the spaces and structures between the ribs. The intercostal muscles lift and lower the ribs with breathing. Landmarks for listening to the heart and lungs and for placing chest tubes are named by intercostal space, such as the fifth intercostal space. Intercostal retractions are the skin pulling in between the ribs with each breath.
For the nurse
Intercostal retractions, especially in an infant or child, are a sign of hard work to breathe and should be reported.
At a glance
| Spanish | intercostal |
|---|---|
| Also written | intercostals |
Related terms
inter-
A word beginning that means between or among.
respiratory distress
Difficulty breathing severe enough that a person has to work hard to move air in and out.
thoracic
Relating to the chest, or to the middle part of the spine.
cost/o
A word part that means rib.