Collateral Branch of Fourth Intercostal Nerve (Left)
Ramus collateralis nervi intercostalis quarti
Read moreQuick Facts
Origin: Fourth intercostal nerve.
Course: Within the fourth intercostal space.
Branches: None.
Supply: Intercostal muscles and parietal pleura.
Related parts of the anatomy
Origin
The collateral branches arise from the anterior rami of the thoracic nerves (or intercostal nerves) early in their course.
Course
The collateral branches arise medial to the angles of the ribs. It courses along the intercostal space, following the superior border of the rib below and within the same muscular plane as the anterior ramus (or intercostal nerve). The collateral branches are accompanied by a collateral artery and vein, respectively.
Branches
There are no named branches of the collateral branches; however, they may rejoin the anterior ramus before it gives off its anterior cutaneous contribution.
Supplied Structures & Function
The collateral branches aid in supplying the intercostal muscles and parietal pleural of the lungs.
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Intercostal Nerve
Slipping rib syndrome is produced by impingement of an intercostal nerve between two costal cartilages, secondary to the subluxation of an interchondral articulation.
