Anatomic- and Physiologic Changes in the Thorax with Aging

Anatomic and Physiologic Changes in the Thorax with Aging

Certain anatomic and physiologic changes take place in the thorax with advancing years:

 ■■The rib cage becomes more rigid and loses its elasticity as the result of calcification and even ossification of the costal cartilages; this also alters their usual radiographic appearance.

■■ The stooped posture (kyphosis), so often seen in the old because of degeneration of the intervertebral discs, decreases the chest capacity.

■■ Disuse atrophy of the thoracic and abdominal muscles can result in poor respiratory movements.

■■ Degeneration of the elastic tissue in the lungs and bronchi results in impairment of the movement of expiration. These changes, when severe, diminish the efficiency of respiratory movements and impair the ability of the individual to withstand respiratory disease.